By Obiabin Onukwugha
Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has reinforced drive to secure the nation’s waterways by deploying seven operational patrol vessels to the Western Marine Command, significantly boosting the Command’s capacity to combat smuggling and other maritime crimes.
The vessels, comprising two gunboats and five logistics boats, were officially handed over to the Command on Monday, thereby increasing its fleet to significantly enhance patrol coverage and rapid response capacity within its area of responsibility.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Comptroller of Western Marine Command, Patrick Ntadi, said the deployment reflects the Service’s strategic commitment to strengthening enforcement across critical maritime corridors.
“These assets are a clear demonstration of our resolve to secure Nigeria’s waterways against economic sabotage and transnational crimes. We are not only expanding our operational capacity but also ensuring that our officers are better equipped to respond swiftly and effectively,” Ntadi said.
He described the expanded fleet as a major boost to ongoing anti-smuggling operations, noting that it addresses previous logistical challenges and strengthens deterrence along key waterways.
“The fight against smuggling is dynamic, and we must remain proactive. This deployment, alongside continuous training and inter-agency collaboration, will significantly improve our enforcement outcomes and protect national revenue,” he added.
It.wouod be noted that the Command recently underwent an intensive training programme conducted by SEWA Africa Ltd, the contractor responsible for the boats, to support the effective deployment of the vessels.
The training focused on handling techniques, safety procedures, and operational efficiency.
A company representative, Steven Okitiape, explained that the training was designed to enhance both competence and safety among officers.
“This training serves as both a refresher and a capacity-building initiative, ensuring that officers can maximise the performance of these vessels while maintaining the highest safety standards,” he said.
