Nigeria Customs Service NCS has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional and international partnerships to combat illicit trade, describing the growing menace as a threat to economic stability, public health, and national security across Africa.
The position was restated on March 25, 2026, during discussions at the EMEA Security Conference 2026 held in Cape Town, South Africa.
The conference brought together policymakers, enforcement agencies, and private-sector stakeholders to advance strategies against counterfeiting and illicit trade.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Sanusi Saulawa, said tackling illicit trade requires coordinated efforts beyond traditional border enforcement, including stronger collaboration with the private sector and regulatory agencies.
He noted that increasingly complex global supply chains and the rapid expansion of digital commerce have created new opportunities for criminal networks to exploit legitimate trade channels.
Saulawa explained that such channels are often used to move counterfeit goods, narcotics, illegal arms, and other prohibited items.
He stressed that illicit trade is not only a commercial issue but also a significant economic and humanitarian challenge, particularly in developing regions where counterfeit pharmaceuticals and substandard products pose serious risks to public health.
The Customs official emphasised that effective border management requires collaboration, technology, and trust, noting that no single agency can address the complexities of illicit trade alone.
He outlined reforms undertaken by the Service, including the adoption of intelligence-led risk management systems to identify high-risk consignments before they enter domestic markets.
Saulawa also highlighted improved collaboration with agencies responsible for drug control, product standards, and consumer protection, adding that joint operations have been strengthened to tackle smuggling networks.
He said the Service has expanded the deployment of scanning equipment, digital monitoring systems, and advanced cargo profiling tools to enhance surveillance and curb the inflow of illicit goods.
According to him, the private sector plays a critical role, as manufacturers, logistics operators, and importers possess valuable supply chain intelligence that can help detect suspicious trade patterns.
Participants at the conference noted that stronger cooperation between governments and businesses across Africa would help reduce illicit trade, protect legitimate commerce, and improve revenue generation.
Abubakar Hamza
