The #Seme Border Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, hosted journalists to a New Year and appreciation gathering, using the occasion to reflect on a year of strong performance while reaffirming its commitment to transparency and collaboration in 2026.

The informal engagement, held at the Command headquarters, brought together more than 50 journalists from print, broadcast and online media platforms across Lagos, Badagry and the wider South-West. The atmosphere was relaxed, with food and refreshments served as conversations flowed freely on border management, trade facilitation and the role of the media in public accountability.

Addressing the journalists, the Comptroller of Customs, Seme Border Command, Mr Wale Adenuga, described the event as a deliberate gesture of gratitude to the media for their consistent engagement and professionalism. He noted that responsible reporting and constructive criticism had played a key role in strengthening public trust in Customs operations along the Seme corridor.

According to the Comptroller, the Command’s relationship with the media goes beyond publicity, adding that accurate reporting helps the public better understand Customs policies, border challenges and the importance of compliance in national economic growth.

Behind the convivial gathering was a year of notable achievements for the Seme Border Command. Under Mr Adenuga’s leadership, the Command exceeded its revenue expectations in 2025, recording one of its strongest performances in recent years. Improved compliance, tighter operational controls and deliberate efforts to block revenue leakages were credited for the surge in collections.

The Command also intensified its fight against smuggling, recording significant interceptions of prohibited and uncustomed goods. Intelligence-driven operations, improved surveillance and stronger collaboration with sister security agencies helped disrupt smuggling networks operating along the Nigeria–Benin corridor, contributing to economic protection and national security.

Journalists at the event noted that the engagement reflected a leadership style that values openness, partnership and results. Many described the interaction as an opportunity to better understand the complexities of border operations and the balance between enforcement and trade facilitation.

As the gathering drew to a close, the message from the Command was clear: the Seme Border Command is entering 2026 with renewed confidence, built on solid performance, strengthened media relations and a shared resolve to raise the bar in revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations and stakeholder engagement in the year ahead.