The Nigeria Customs Service Federal Operations Unit Zone A says it is moving from reactive raids to predictive enforcement through the adoption of geospatial intelligence technology, a shift aimed at improving border security and curbing smuggling nationwide.
Comptroller Gambo disclosed the new approach on Wednesday while receiving the newly elected executives of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria at the command headquarters in Lagos.
He said the transition aligns with broader reforms introduced by the Comptroller-General of Customs to strengthen intelligence-driven operations and boost interdiction success rates.
“We are at the point of transiting from reactive enforcement to predictive enforcement. We are leaning towards GeoINT because it gives us more predictability and allows us to geomap routes for a more targeted approach at our interdictions,” Gambo explained.
The unit had relied largely on Open Source Intelligence and Human Intelligence, but the adoption of Geo-Intelligence is expected to improve operational precision, resource allocation, and monitoring of smuggling routes.
Gambo said FOU Zone A remains focused on protecting the port corridor through coordinated enforcement with other Customs units. Between 5 and 21 May 2026, the command intercepted over 800 packages of cannabis, including synthetic strains known as “skunk,” and small quantities of crystal meth. Since assuming office, the unit has thwarted 674 smuggling attempts.
“As we speak, operatives are on the field carrying out operations. These are critical times and we are determined to contribute our quota towards keeping society safe,” he said.
He linked the rise in illicit drugs to increased criminality, banditry, and insecurity, stressing that Customs enforcement is central to national security and public safety.
The unit is also enforcing environmental protection by intercepting ozone-depleting substances and prohibited refrigerator and air-conditioner compressors imported in violation of international conventions.
Gambo described MARAN as a critical stakeholder in safeguarding Nigeria’s frontiers and commended the association for its role in maritime journalism and public enlightenment. He pledged support for MARAN’s capacity-building initiatives and lauded its dispassionate reportage.
Earlier, MARAN President Oluyinka Onigbinde said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the unit in the fight against smuggling and economic sabotage, and assured continued support through balanced coverage of Customs operations.
