NCS advocates smart border innovations at Africa border security week
Omeiza Bilal
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) advocates for smart border innovations to enhance trade facilitation, bolster international collaboration, and strengthen intelligence-driven enforcement. Assistant Comptroller of Customs Sanusi Saulawa underscored this commitment during his address at the 2025 edition of the Africa Border Security Week.
The two-day high-level forum, held from May 6–7 in the historic city of Cape Town, brought together top experts, policymakers, and security operatives under the theme: “Strengthening Africa’s Border with Smart Technology.” The event served as a strategic platform for advancing dialogue, partnerships, and innovations around smarter, safer, and more efficient border operations across the continent.
Representing the Nigeria Customs Service, AC Saulawa delivered a presentation highlighting the Service’s efforts in deploying cutting-edge technology and data-driven strategies to enhance border surveillance, improve passenger processing, and curb illicit cross-border activities.
“In a world that is becoming increasingly sophisticated and connected,” AC Saulawa stated, “my presentation highlighted Nigeria Customs’ commitment to international collaboration, trade modernisation, and intelligence-driven enforcement.” He addressed the major drivers of illicit trade and outlined actionable strategies for policymakers and law enforcement agencies to mitigate emerging threats.
A key highlight of his participation was a dynamic panel discussion that featured thought leaders and operational experts from customs, immigration, marine, aviation, and security agencies across Africa and beyond. Together, they shared insights, confronted shared challenges, and examined how innovation can reshape the future of secure and sovereign African borders.
The Africa Border Security Week continues to play a crucial role in fostering cooperation among regional stakeholders. Its renewed focus is on the role of innovative technology in transforming border security, promoting lawful trade, and ensuring the safety of citizens.
