AWC MDA Desk
Cape Town, South Africa
The Nigeria Customs Service has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional and international collaboration to combat illicit trade, describing the menace as a growing threat to economic stability, public health, and national security across Africa.
This position was made known at the Europe, Middle East, and Africa Security 2026 Conference held in Cape Town, where policymakers, enforcement agencies, and private-sector stakeholders convened to develop strategies to curb counterfeiting and illegal trade.
Speaking at the conference, Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Sanusi Saulawa, emphasized the urgent need for a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach to tackling illicit trade across borders.
He highlighted the importance of strengthening border enforcement mechanisms, fostering partnerships with the private sector, and enhancing collaboration with regulatory agencies to effectively disrupt the flow of illegal goods.
Saulawa also outlined key operational reforms being implemented by the NCS, including the adoption of intelligence-led risk management systems, deployment of advanced scanning technologies, and the use of digital monitoring tools to improve surveillance and detection capabilities.
According to him, joint operations and information-sharing frameworks are critical in dismantling transnational criminal networks and preventing illicit goods from infiltrating African markets.
Participants at the conference underscored the need for sustained international cooperation, noting that illicit trade remains a complex global challenge requiring unified action and policy alignment among nations.
The renewed commitment by the Nigeria Customs Service signals a proactive approach toward safeguarding the nation’s economy and reinforcing Africa’s collective response to the rising threat of illegal trade activities.
