Nigeria Customs Deepens Global Security Collaboration at DSA 2026
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reinforced its commitment to international security cooperation, as the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, participated in the 19th Defence Services Asia Exhibition and Conference (DSA 2026) in Kuala Lumpur.
The event, held on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre, brought together more than 1,400 companies and key stakeholders in defence technology, electronic warfare, and homeland security. It was officially declared open by Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim.
Speaking as a special guest at the Police–Private Security Dialogue on Cross-Border Crime and Transnational Networks, Adeniyi called for a transition from isolated enforcement efforts to coordinated global action in tackling evolving security threats. The session, convened under the Asia Pacific Security Association Malaysia International Security Summit (AMISST) 2026, attracted security experts from 14 countries across Asia and the Pacific.
He noted that the increasing complexity of transnational crimes—including drug trafficking, wildlife smuggling, financial crimes, and terrorism financing—demands integrated strategies anchored on intelligence sharing and joint operations.
Drawing on the NCS experience, Adeniyi outlined a three-pronged approach centred on technology adoption, institutional collaboration, and continuous capacity building.
He emphasised the need for modern enforcement tools and well-trained personnel to effectively respond to emerging crime patterns.
The Customs boss also highlighted frameworks by the World Customs Organization as vital instruments guiding member states in combating cross-border crimes, stressing that criminal activities in one region often have far-reaching global consequences.
Participants at the dialogue identified key challenges facing enforcement agencies, including manpower shortages, outdated equipment, and the rapid evolution of technology-driven crime. There was broad agreement on the need for stronger cooperation among governments, international organisations, and private security actors.
Stakeholders further called for improved intelligence gathering, community engagement, and sustained collaboration with global agencies such as INTERPOL to enhance cross-border security efforts.
On the sidelines of the conference, Adeniyi held bilateral meetings with customs authorities from the Asia-Pacific and the Americas to strengthen operational partnerships and promote knowledge exchange.
He reaffirmed the NCS’s commitment to deepening collaboration with international security networks across multiple regions, noting that such partnerships are essential for safeguarding borders, protecting economic interests, and maintaining the integrity of global trade.