Predictive enforcement key to Tackling Smuggling, says Customs FOU Zone ‘A’ Comptroller Gambo
Predictive Enforcement Key to Tackling Smuggling, Says Customs FOU Zone A Comptroller Gambo
By Babatunde Aremu
The Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, Comptroller Gambo, has said the unit is shifting from reactive enforcement operations to predictive enforcement through the deployment of geospatial intelligence technology aimed at improving border security and combating smuggling activities across the country.
Gambo disclosed this on Wednesday while receiving the newly elected executives of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) during a courtesy visit to the command headquarters in Lagos.
The Comptroller explained that the transition to predictive enforcement was part of broader reforms introduced under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs to strengthen intelligence-driven operations and enhance interdiction success rates nationwide.
According to him, the deployment of geospatial intelligence would improve operational precision, resource allocation and monitoring of smuggling routes.
“We are at the point of transiting from reactive enforcement to predictive enforcement. We are leaning towards GeoINT because it gives us more predictability and allows us to geomap routes for a more targeted approach at our interdictions,” he said.
He noted that the unit had previously relied heavily on Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) and Human Intelligence (HUMINT), but stressed that the adoption of Geo-Intelligence (GeoINT) would significantly improve operational efficiency and intelligence gathering.
Gambo further stated that the Federal Operations Unit remained committed to safeguarding the integrity of the port corridor through strategic interventions and coordinated enforcement operations with other units of the Nigeria Customs Service.
He revealed that the command had intensified anti-smuggling operations across border corridors and had continued to record major seizures, particularly involving illicit drugs and prohibited goods.
Providing details of recent interceptions, the Customs boss disclosed that between May 5 and May 21, 2026, the command seized more than 800 packages of cannabis in addition to several interceptions involving synthetic cannabis strains popularly known as “skunk” and small quantities of crystal meth.
He also stated that the Unit had successfully thwarted 674 smuggling attempts since he assumed office as Comptroller of FOU Zone A.
“As we speak, operatives are on the field carrying out operations. These are critical times and we are determined to contribute our quota towards keeping society safe,” he stated.
Gambo linked the growing menace of illicit drugs to rising criminality, banditry and insecurity in the country, stressing that Customs enforcement operations were crucial to national security and public safety.
He added that the Unit was also enforcing environmental protection measures by intercepting ozone-depleting substances and prohibited refrigerator and air-conditioner compressors imported into the country in violation of international environmental conventions.
According to him, the command remains focused on enforcing government fiscal policies, protecting legitimate trade and preventing the entry of prohibited goods into Nigeria.
The Comptroller described MARAN as a critical stakeholder in the maritime industry and commended the association for its contributions to maritime journalism and public enlightenment.
“It is particularly heartwarming to note that MARAN is one of the critical stakeholders in our resolve to protect the frontiers of Nigeria. We appreciate the pivotal role that you play,” he said.
He further pledged the support of the command towards MARAN’s capacity-building initiatives, noting that continuous professional development remained essential for effective and responsible journalism.
Gambo also commended members of the association for what he described as their dispassionate reportage and constructive engagement with government agencies.
Speaking earlier, President of MARAN, Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the relationship between the association and the Federal Operations Unit while promoting collaboration in the fight against smuggling and economic sabotage.
Onigbinde assured the command of MARAN’s continued support through balanced and professional reportage of Customs operations and policies.
The visit featured the signing of the visitors’ register, presentation of souvenirs and group photographs between the executives of MARAN and the management of FOU Zone A.
