Customs CG, Adeniyi revives CMAA with US CBP to enhance border security, Service delivery

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to bolstering global partnerships.

Adeniyi’s said this during a bilateral meeting with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Washington, D.C., in a recent meeting. The focus of the meeting was to reactivate the Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement (CMAA), dormant for over a decade, aimed at fortifying national security through enhanced collaboration and data-driven strategies to combat cross-border crimes.

Adeniyi underscored the imperative role of Customs officials in tackling prevalent transnational challenges such as drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and money laundering while safeguarding national interests. “We’ve successfully intercepted illegal drugs and weapons at major Nigerian ports and airports,” Adeniyi stated, stressing the critical need to revive the CMAA. “This agreement will significantly augment our capabilities in border protection and service delivery, ensuring a safer and more prosperous future for all Nigerians.”

Addressing specific challenges, Adeniyi highlighted the ongoing efforts in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) enforcement and combating opiates. “While our achievements are notable, there’s a continuous need for capacity building and stringent enforcement,” he remarked.

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In advocating for advanced security measures, Adeniyi proposed the establishment of a Center for Advanced Cargo and Passenger Data Analysis to mitigate risks effectively. He emphasized the importance of an advanced command and control center to bolster security operations, citing its pivotal role in managing risks proactively.

The meeting also explored strategies to enhance commercial air cargo security and foster partnerships with U.S. government agencies. Adeniyi praised CBP’s global targeting advisory capabilities, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches and international cooperation in addressing air cargo complexities.

James Collins, Assistant Commissioner of CBP’s Office of International Affairs, echoed Adeniyi’s sentiments on the criticality of data integration and collaborative efforts in countering transnational threats. “Integration of data and international cooperation is paramount in combating criminal groups exploiting border vulnerabilities,” Collins emphasized. He stressed the necessity of capacity building and targeted training to bolster border security, advocating for secure intelligence channels and partnerships with global entities.

Key outcomes included plans for enhanced intelligence sharing channels between Nigerian Customs and CBP, exploring operational partnerships for coordinated cross-border responses, and leveraging INTERPOL initiatives in combating transnational crimes across West and Central Africa.

The meeting culminated with a presentation on Artificial Intelligence by Sunil Madhugri from CBP’s Office of Information and Technology, underscoring AI’s transformative role in modernizing border security operations.

In a related engagement, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi visited the Nigerian Embassy in the USA, expressing gratitude for their support towards Nigerians in the diaspora and affirming Nigeria’s commitment to fostering international relations for mutual benefits.

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