Customs Boss Calls for Unified Global Response to Evolving Security Threats in Kuala Lumpur
The Nigeria Customs Service has reinforced its commitment to international security cooperation, with the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, calling for stronger global collaboration to tackle transnational crime at the 19th Defence Services Asia Exhibition and Conference 2026 in Kuala Lumpur.
The high-level conference, held on April 21, 2026, at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre, brought together over 1,400 companies and key stakeholders in defence technology, homeland security, and electronic warfare. It was officially declared open by Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim.
Adeniyi, who spoke as a special guest at a security dialogue under the Asia Pacific Security Association Malaysia International Security Summit, stressed that the evolving nature of crime demands a shift from isolated national responses to coordinated global action.
“The nature of crime has evolved beyond borders, requiring enforcement agencies to move from isolated responses to coordinated global action. Collaboration is no longer optional; it is the foundation of effective security,” he said.
The Customs boss highlighted the increasing sophistication of transnational criminal networks, noting that crimes such as drug trafficking, wildlife smuggling, financial fraud, and terrorism financing are now interconnected and often span multiple jurisdictions.
Drawing on the experience of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adeniyi outlined a three-pronged strategy centred on technology adoption, institutional collaboration, and capacity building. He emphasised that modern enforcement requires advanced tools and highly trained personnel capable of responding to emerging threats.
He also referenced frameworks developed by the World Customs Organization, describing them as critical in guiding member states to combat cross-border crime effectively. According to him, criminal activities originating in one region often have far-reaching global consequences, making international cooperation indispensable.
Participants at the forum identified shared challenges confronting enforcement agencies, including manpower constraints, outdated equipment, and the rapid rise of technology-driven crime. There was a consensus that criminal groups are becoming more coordinated, requiring governments and security institutions to strengthen partnerships.
Stakeholders advocated deeper intelligence sharing, community engagement, and closer collaboration with global bodies such as INTERPOL to enhance cross-border enforcement.
On the sidelines of the conference, Adeniyi held bilateral meetings with customs administrations from the Asia-Pacific and the Americas, aimed at strengthening operational partnerships and promoting knowledge exchange.
He reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to expanding cooperation with international security networks across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, stressing that such alliances are essential for safeguarding borders, protecting national economic interests, and maintaining the integrity of global trade.
By PRNigeria