NAOSS Leadership Pay Courtesy Visit to Ogun 1 Command
NAOSS Leadership Pay Courtesy Visit to Ogun 1 Command
By Success Okezie
The National leadership of National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS) has moved to strengthen collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, pledging youth-focused advocacy against smuggling and drug abuse during a courtesy visit to the Command on January 22, 2026.
The visit, which also served to formally congratulate the Ag. Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Olukayode Afeni, on his recent appointment, underscored growing synergy between security agencies and youth stakeholders in safeguarding national security.
Speaking during the engagement, NAOSS Global President, Comrade Olubodun Olalekan, commended Deputy Comptroller Afeni for what he described as “remarkable operational milestones” recorded by the Command since his assumption of office. He specifically lauded the interception of illicit drugs—particularly marijuana—as well as illegal arms and ammunition, noting that such efforts are critical to preventing criminal activities and protecting young people from destructive influences.
According to Comrade Olalekan, the Ogun I Command occupies a strategic position in national security architecture, especially along border communities. “The Command is playing a vital role in safeguarding the nation by ensuring that illegal businesses do not thrive within Ogun State,” he stated.
As part of its support, NAOSS announced plans to organise a sensitisation rally aimed at educating youths and the general public on the dangers of smuggling and drug consumption, reinforcing preventive advocacy alongside enforcement.
In his response, Deputy Comptroller Afeni highlighted the historical importance of the Idiroko border and acknowledged the improved relationship between Customs officers and host communities. He noted that incidents of confrontation, which once characterised the area, have significantly reduced, giving way to relative peace and cooperation.
However, the Controller expressed concern over the alarming volume of drugs intercepted daily by the Command, observing that many of those involved are youths. He described the situation as a persistent “buyer-seller cycle” that must be broken and reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to intensify enforcement and community engagement to curb the menace.
The visit reflects a growing recognition of the need for collaborative approaches involving security agencies, educational institutions, and youth organisations in tackling smuggling, drug abuse, and other trans-border crimes.
The visit was confirmed in a statement signed by Chado Zakari, anipr, Deputy Superintendent of Customs and Public Relations Officer, Ogun I Area Command, Idiroko, Ogun State.
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