Nigeria Customs Takes Step to Stop Nuclear Smuggling
By Patience Ikpeme
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the launch of a Radiological and Nuclear Detection Program (RANDA).
This initiative promises to equip officers with the expertise and technology needed to identify and halt the illicit movement of nuclear materials across Nigerian borders.
Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, unveiled the programme at the inauguration of a four-day capacity building workshop organized by the World Customs Organization (WCO). Recognizing the programme’s crucial role in bolstering cross-border security, Assistant Comptroller General Malanta Yusuf emphasized its potential to provide officers with invaluable skills and knowledge.
“This programme will expose participants to the operational challenges and diverse roles involved in detecting and combating nuclear smuggling,” Yusuf explained. He commended the unwavering commitment of the Customs leadership to continuous innovation, underscoring the importance of WCO training in honing officers’ skills with cutting-edge knowledge.
The RANDA programme’s groundbreaking nature was further highlighted by CSC Nafi’u Abubakar, the Nigeria Customs Service Radiation Safety Officer. He lauded the Comptroller-General’s decisive approval, positioning Nigeria as one of the first countries to implement such a comprehensive initiative.
“The benefits of this programme are substantial,” Abubakar declared. “It will significantly enhance the Customs Service’s capabilities, not only in addressing nuclear smuggling but also in navigating the evolving landscape of border security threats.”
The programme’s potential to transform border security efforts garnered applause from renowned experts like Dr. Isa Sambo FSI, Director of Radiological Safety at the Nigeria Nuclear Regulatory Authority.
He commended the timely launch of the programme, emphasizing its vital role in solidifying Nigeria’s position as a global leader in securing borders against illicit nuclear activities.
“This initiative signals a new era in securing our borders and confronting emerging threats. The Nigeria Customs Service deserves recognition for its proactive approach and commitment to safeguarding our nation” Dr. Sambo concluded.
