Nigeria Customs Pushes for Deeper Collaboration With OPHK on Border Security

By Zainab Uzomah|Abuja

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is seeking stronger operational ties with the Headquarters Joint Task Force, North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), as part of efforts to tighten border security across Borno and Yobe states.

According to the statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for Operation HADIN KAI, Controller Abdullahi Mohammed Idris—who oversees Customs operations in both states—made the push during a courtesy visit to the OPHK headquarters on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

The statement stated that Idris said the visit was aimed at reinforcing cooperation with the Armed Forces of Nigeria and consolidating existing ties. He noted that the NCS had deployed geo-spatial surveillance technology across land and sea borders to enhance monitoring and response efforts, adding that the support of OPHK remained crucial in the North-East region.

He also acknowledged the Nigerian Army’s role in establishing the Nigeria Customs Service Staff College and in supporting training for customs personnel. Idris thanked the Theatre Commander for the reception and expressed confidence that the engagement would further strengthen joint border operations.

Responding, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, commended the NCS for its continued role in national security. He said a multi-agency approach was essential, noting that porous borders contributed to the spread of small arms and light weapons and posed significant risks to border communities.

Major General Abubakar praised NCS personnel serving under OPHK for their professionalism and reaffirmed the task force’s readiness to maintain close collaboration.

The visit also included the signing of the visitors’ register and an exchange of souvenirs.