The Nigeria Customs Service has unveiled plans to initiate a radiological and nuclear detection programme aimed at enhancing national security and preventing the smuggling of nuclear materials. The announcement was made by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, at a 4-day capacity-building workshop organised by the World Customs Organisation (WCO) at the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College in Gwagwalada.
Assistant Comptroller General Malanta Yusuf, representing the CGC at the workshop, emphasised the significance of the programme in providing participants with the technical expertise required to identify and combat the illegal trafficking of radiological and nuclear materials. The initiative is expected to bolster cross-border security by familiarising participants with operational challenges and fostering a better understanding of the various responsibilities involved in this novel strategy.
Yusuf commended the leadership of Customs for their concerted efforts, highlighting the role of innovation in enhancing the overall performance of the service. He underscored the importance of World Customs Organization-hosted training sessions to equip officers with cutting-edge information and skills.
Nigeria Customs Service Radiation Safety Officer, CSC Nafi’u Abubakar, expressed appreciation for the CGC’s endorsement of the Radiological and Nuclear Detection Programme (RANDA). Abubakar noted the uniqueness of the initiative on a global scale, positioning Nigeria as one of the first nations to implement this groundbreaking endeavour domestically. He emphasised the significant benefits the Nigeria Customs Service stands to gain from the programme, highlighting its importance beyond its novelty.
Dr. Isa Sambo FSI, the Director of Radiological Safety at the Nigeria Nuclear Regulatory Authority, praised the CGC for promptly approving the training, noting its potential to combat border crimes and enhance the country’s capability to effectively address new risks. The initiative is expected to position Nigeria at the forefront of international efforts to secure borders against the illicit trafficking of radiological and nuclear materials.