By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The SouthWest Zonal Commander of the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS), DCGQ (Dr.) Joy Ivbade Ichue, visited the Seme Border Command in Lagos State to strengthen inter-agency collaboration, improve operational efficiency, enhance staff welfare, and reinforce border security. During the working visit, she met with security and regulatory agencies operating at Nigeria’s busiest land border to promote intelligence sharing, coordinated border management, and the protection of the country’s agricultural economy.
NAQS Pushes for Stronger Border Security Cooperation
Dr. Ichue held a strategic meeting with officials of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and other government agencies.
She stressed the need for stronger intelligence sharing among border agencies. According to her, coordinated operations remain essential to stopping the illegal movement of agricultural commodities.
She explained that such collaboration helps prevent the spread of pests, diseases, and other biosecurity threats. It also supports legitimate cross-border trade and protects Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Customs Reaffirms Partnership with NAQS
The Customs Area Comptroller, Abdullahi Kaila, reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to its partnership with NAQS.
He said the agency would continue profiling offenders, monitoring suspicious cargo movements, and supporting joint enforcement operations. He added that sustained collaboration would improve border security and trade compliance.
Commander Inspects Facilities and Engages Officers
During the visit, Dr. Ichue inspected key operational facilities at the Seme Border Command.
The inspection covered border inspection points, the renovated office complex, staff quarters, and the quarter guard parade ground.
She also held an interactive session with officers. The discussion focused on operational challenges, staff welfare, and ways to improve service delivery.
NAQS Commends Officers’ Commitment
Dr. Ichue praised officers of the Seme Border Command for their professionalism, resilience, and dedication despite operational challenges.
She urged them to remain vigilant and strengthen cooperation with sister agencies and stakeholders. She noted that stronger collaboration would protect Nigeria’s agricultural resources, improve national biosecurity, and facilitate safe international trade.
The visit reaffirmed NAQS’ commitment to stronger inter-agency cooperation and more effective border management across Nigeria.
