The Area Commander of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Command, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, has expressed concern over the growing number of checkpoints along the Lagos-Badagry corridor, describing it as a major obstacle to trade facilitation and economic growth.
Adenuga made the observation on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the executive members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council, to the Seme Command.
He lamented that the proliferation of checkpoints mounted by various security agencies had become counterproductive, warning that the practice could discourage genuine business activities and tarnish Nigeria’s image as a trade-friendly nation.
“I want to categorically state that we have far too many checkpoints operated by various security agencies along the Badagry axis. Most of these checkpoints should not exist in the first place.
“This development is quite embarrassing and could have serious negative implications for the country’s economy. The business community may begin to shy away from trading with Nigeria due to these unnecessary bottlenecks,” Adenuga said.
The comptroller explained that only two official checkpoints – Gbagi and Agbara – are recognised by the Customs management, stressing that others are illegal and undermine the government’s trade facilitation agenda. He also highlighted the tourism potential of Badagry, noting that its historical significance could generate additional revenue if properly developed.
Adenuga reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to improving revenue generation and curbing smuggling activities. He disclosed that the Seme Command generated about N1.5 billion in revenue last month, representing a 182 per cent increase, and projected that the figure could reach N2 billion by the end of October.
He further called for sustained public enlightenment to educate Nigerians on the negative impact of multiple checkpoints, including their contribution to the rising cost of goods and transportation.
Describing the NUJ’s visit as a morale booster, Adenuga said such engagements help to showcase the Command’s achievements while identifying areas requiring further improvement.
In his remarks, the NUJ Chairman, Mr. Adeleye Ajayi, described the visit as a homecoming and commended the Customs officers at the Seme Border for their professionalism, resilience, and dedication to duty.
Ajayi, who led a delegation of Lagos journalists, confirmed the existence of multiple checkpoints along the Badagry–Seme corridor and urged authorities to urgently address the issue. He applauded the Command for its efforts in combating smuggling, boosting revenue, and promoting cross-border cooperation.
“The Seme Border is one of Nigeria’s most strategic trade gateways, and we must appreciate the Customs Service for maintaining professionalism despite the challenges. Their enhanced surveillance systems and adherence to global best practices have greatly reduced smuggling and illicit trade,” he said.
Ajayi also praised the Command for its role in border security, interception of contraband and dangerous goods, and collaboration with other security agencies to tackle transnational crimes such as drug and human trafficking.
As part of the visit, Comptroller Adenuga presented a commemorative plaque to Ajayi in recognition of his contributions to national development.
Other members of the NUJ delegation included Philip Nwosu (Vice Chairman), Tunde Olalere (Secretary), Olayide Awosanya (Assistant Secretary), Oluwakemi Ishola (Internal Auditor), Alaba Igbaroola (Ex-Officio), and Gbenga Faile (Chairman, Lagos NUJ Media Investment Committee).
- Media Report