In a significant stride toward fortifying national security, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has unveiled its strategic plan to implement a groundbreaking Radiological and Nuclear Detection Program. The announcement was made by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, during the inauguration of a 4-Day Capacity Building Workshop organized by the World Customs Organization (WCO). This transformative initiative is geared towards bolstering the country’s defenses against the smuggling of nuclear materials.
Representing the CGC at the workshop, Assistant Comptroller General Malanta Yusuf underscored the importance of the program, emphasizing its role in equipping participants with the technical expertise necessary to identify and combat the illegal trafficking of radiological and nuclear materials. The workshop aims to enhance cross-border security by familiarizing participants with operational challenges and fostering a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted responsibilities associated with this novel strategy.
ACG Malanta Yusuf commended the Customs leadership for their concerted efforts in embracing innovation to elevate the Service’s overall performance. He highlighted the critical role of training sessions in ensuring that officers gain state-of-the-art information and skills to effectively address evolving threats.
CSC Nafi’u Abubakar, the Radiation Safety Officer at the Nigeria Customs Service, emphasized the uniqueness of the program on a global scale. By implementing this pioneering initiative domestically, Nigeria positions itself as one of the leading nations committed to addressing the challenges of nuclear material smuggling. The program marks a significant step forward in the Customs Service’s commitment to adopting innovative methods to combat nuclear smuggling.
The endorsement from experienced specialist Dr. Isa Sambo FSI, the Director of Radiological Safety at the Nigeria Nuclear Regulatory Authority, further underscores the potential game-changing impact of this strategic move. Dr. Sambo praised the CGC for promptly approving the training, foreseeing a reduction in border crimes and an enhancement of the country’s ability to effectively address new risks.
He affirmed, “The action is set to place Nigeria at the forefront of international efforts to secure borders against the illicit trafficking of radiological and nuclear materials.”
As Infostride News brings you this exclusive coverage, the initiative showcases Nigeria’s dedication to staying ahead in the global fight against nuclear proliferation, setting a precedent for other nations to follow suit in safeguarding their borders and ensuring a secure future.
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