The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reinforced its commitment to international security collaboration, as Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, participated in the 19th Defence Services Asia Exhibition and Conference (DSA 2026) in Kuala Lumpur.
The global security gathering, held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre, brought together over 1,400 companies and key stakeholders across defence technology, electronic warfare, and homeland security. The event was officially declared open by Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim.
Speaking as a Special Guest at the Police–Private Security Dialogue under the Asia Pacific Security Association Malaysia International Security Summit (AMISST) 2026, Adeniyi called for a shift from isolated enforcement responses to coordinated global action against transnational crime.
He stressed that evolving security threats—ranging from narcotics trafficking and financial fraud to terrorism financing—now operate across borders and require unified international strategies.
“The nature of crime has evolved beyond borders, requiring enforcement agencies to move from isolated responses to coordinated global action. Collaboration is no longer optional; it is the foundation of effective security,” he said.
The Comptroller-General outlined a three-pillar strategy adopted by the NCS, focusing on technology deployment, institutional collaboration, and continuous capacity building for personnel.
Referencing frameworks by the World Customs Organization, Adeniyi noted that global standards and cooperation mechanisms remain essential in tackling cross-border criminal networks.
Participants at the summit identified major challenges facing enforcement agencies, including manpower shortages, outdated equipment, and the increasing sophistication of technology-driven crime. There was a shared consensus on the need for stronger partnerships among governments, private security operators, and international organisations such as INTERPOL.
On the sidelines of the conference, Adeniyi held bilateral meetings with customs administrations from the Asia-Pacific and the Americas, aimed at strengthening operational collaboration and knowledge exchange.
He reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to deepening global partnerships to enhance border security, safeguard economic interests, and uphold the integrity of international trade.
