The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi has reiterated the importance of engaging officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service in capacity-building initiatives to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against transnational organised crime, emphasising the menace of proliferation of small arms and illicit substances as a grave threat to public safety.
Speaking at the conclusion of a three-day in-house training on the use of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Geoportal Tool, held from 9th to 11th December 2024 in Abuja, the Comptroller-General of Customs, represented by Comptroller Oshoba Oluwadare Emmanuel in-charge of CIU, emphasised the significance of the WCO’s Colibri project in combating illicit trafficking via general aviation.
In his opening remarks, Comptroller Oshoba welcomed the 32 participants were strategically selected from various airports, including Murtala Muhammad International Airport, Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, Port Harcourt International Airport, and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
He described the Colibri project as a critical initiative financed by the European Union, aimed at securing general aviation operations to thwart illicit activities such as arms trafficking, drug smuggling, and money laundering.
“The success of the Colibri project relies heavily on field officers’ ability to conduct efficient GA controls and upload accurate data to the Geoportal. This workshop equips participants with the skills necessary to take ownership of the project as it transitions to its second phase.” He said.
The Comptroller lauded the support of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, for his unwavering commitment to the project and acknowledged the WCO for its role in capacity building and mentorship.
He also expressed gratitude to the facilitators for their diligent efforts in preparing the participants.
Meanwhile, during an interview with journalists on the closing day, the Comptroller highlighted the broader implications of the Colibri project, stating:
“It is very important because one of our core mandates is to protect society. The Colibri project focuses on controlling general aviation, particularly private aircraft movements, which helps us address issues like the influx of small arms, drugs, and illicit funds.” Comptroller Oshogba said.
He added, “This is not just a Nigerian initiative; it is an international collaboration supported by the WCO and the EU, involving agencies like the NDLEA, NCAA, Nigerian Police, and Nigerian Air Force.”
Describing the Geoportal Tool as a vital technology that enables customs officers to localise operations anywhere in the country or globally, Comptroller Oshoba said the project is in its pilot phase, he foresees its extension to land borders and other critical areas, further enhancing national security.
To the participants, he remarked: “You were carefully selected for this training because of your proficiency with IT tools. This is not a classroom exercise; it’s fieldwork. You are expected to apply what you have learned and upload accurate data to the Geoportal at your respective areas of responsibility. The results from this training will determine the project’s success.”
The Comptroller urged participants to embrace the Geoportal Tool’s functionalities, stressing that the project’s success hinges on their ability to conduct effective GA controls and upload accurate data.
“This training is about fieldwork, not just theory. The results we expect from you in your areas of responsibility will determine the success of this initiative.” he added.
Compt. Emmanuel Oshoba, Compt. CIU.
