Multiple Checkpoints Inhibits Trade Facilitation– Compt. Adenuga

By Joe Njoku,
Global Freight News.

Comptroller Wale Adenuga, Customs Area Controller, Seme Customs Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has expressed serious concern over the Proliferation of multiple checkpoints along the Lagos–Abidjan corridor, describing them as detrimental to trade facilitation.

Adenuga made this known during a working visit by the executive members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council to the Seme Command of the Nigeria Customs Service.

While receiving the delegation, Adenuga described the numerous checkpoints as a major obstacle to seamless trade, warning that the situation could discourage genuine business transactions within the region.

According to him, “I want to categorically state that we have far too many checkpoints operated by various security agencies along the badagry axis. Most of these checkpoints should not exist in the first place.

” This development is quite embarrassing and could have serious negative implications for the nation’s economy. The business community may begin to shy away from trading with Nigeria due to these unnecessary hinderances,” he said.

Furthermore, he emphasised that beyond trade, Badagry is a location rich in history and tourism potentials, both of which serve as additional revenue streams for the country if properly harnessed.

He said that, only two official checkpoints, Gbaji and Agbara are recognized by the Customs Management, while the others are illegal and counterproductive.

He reiterated the command’s unwaivering commitment to enhancing revenue collection and reducing smuggling to barest minimum.

However, he revealed that under his leadership, the command recorded about #1.5 billion as revenue last month, representing 182% increase, adding that the command is on track to generate close to #2 billion for the month of October, 2025.

He stressed the need for sustained public enlightenment to educate Nigerians operators on the negative impact of multiple checkpoints, particularly how they contributed to increased prices of goods.

Adenuga described the NUJ’s visit as a morale boosters, noting that such engagements offered an opportunity to showcase achievements and identify areas needing improvement.

In response, the NUJ Chairman, Mr Adeleye Ajayi, described the visit as timing.

He commended the achievements of the Command and praised the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service.

“I bring greetings from over 7,000 Journalists in Lagos State. We commend the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Command for its dedication, professionalism and the remarkable strides it is making towards securing our borders and facilitating legitimate trade.

“Your efforts in combating smuggling, increasing revenue and promoting cross-border cooperation are truly commendable. You have set a standard of excellence, and we appreciate your contributions to national development and security,” he said.

However, Ajayi described the Seme Border as one of Nigeria s most strategic trade gateways and lauded the Customs Officers stationed there for their consistency and resilience in the face of challenges.

“Despite the high traffic at this post, the officers continue to demonstrate professionalism. Their enhanced surveillance system, improved inspection protocols, and adherence to global best practices have contributed significantly to curbing smuggling and illicit trade,” Ajayi said.

He further commended the command’s role in revenue collection, noting that their commitment to accurate valuation, proper documentation and revenue leakages had significantly contributed to Nigeria’ s economic stability.

On security, he emphasised the role of the Customs Service in safeguarding the nation’s borders, intercepting contraband, as well as collaborating effectively with other security agencies to combat transnational crimes such as human and drug trafficking.

As part of the visit, Ajayi was presented with a plaque by the Comptroller in recognition of his contributions to national development.

Other members of the NUJ delegation include, Philip Nwosu, Vice Chairman, Tunde Olalere, Secretary, Olayide Awosanya, Assistant Secretary, Oluwakemi Ishola, Internal Auditor, Alaba Igbaroola, Ex–Officio, and Gbenga Faile, Chairman, Lagos NUJ Media Investment Committee.