Aiming to strengthen security along Nigeria’s waterways, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Western Marine Command and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Lagos Marine Command have launched a three-day training programme.

The exercise kicked off with a joint parade on Wednesday at Ibafon, Lagos, signalling a renewed commitment to inter-agency collaboration amid growing maritime security threats.

Customs Area  Comptroller Patrick Ntadi spoke at the parade, underscoring the shared mission of both agencies. “This is my first parade, and I’m pleased to hold it alongside the Immigration Service. We are like twins in service, working towards the same national objective. That’s why your Comptroller could send you here without hesitation,” Ntadi said.

He noted that the joint training aligns with the vision of Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi. “Today, we are kick-starting a three-day programme in line with the CGC’s agenda for capacity building. We know the importance of our work and are committed to delivering on it. This exercise will conclude with a joint waterway patrol, demonstrating our shared resolve.”

Comptroller of Immigration Clementina Ogbudu, representing the Lagos Port/Marine Command, commended the dedication of officers from both services. “I know how much the CAC values his officers, just as I value mine. You have consistently shown vigilance and professionalism in your duties, which deserves commendation,” she said. “Today, we have chosen to work together to form a team that is difficult to breach, given our role at the forefront of critical national security issues.”

After the parade, participants kicked off the training with an interactive session and a keynote lecture titled “Collaborating for National Security and Development: A Blueprint for the Nigeria Immigration and Customs Services.”

This collaborative initiative reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s waterways through enhanced coordination, capacity building, and joint operational readiness. The three-day programme is set to include practical joint waterway patrols and further sessions on strategic collaboration between the two agencies.