By Ayomide Otitoju
The Area Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Command, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, has raised concerns over the proliferation of checkpoints along the Lagos–Badagry corridor, describing them as major impediments to trade facilitation and economic growth.
Adenuga made this known on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the executive members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council, to the Seme Command.
He stated that while the Customs Service recognizes only two official checkpoints — Gbaji and Agbara — several others operated by various security agencies have become illegal and counterproductive.
“I want to categorically state that we have far too many checkpoints operated by different security agencies along the Badagry axis. Most of these checkpoints should not exist in the first place,” he said. “This development is quite embarrassing and could discourage genuine trade, ultimately impacting the nation’s economy.”
Adenuga also highlighted Badagry’s historical and tourism potential, noting that the area could serve as a vital source of revenue if properly developed and managed.
Reiterating the Command’s commitment to improved revenue generation and anti-smuggling operations, Adenuga disclosed that the Seme Command generated ₦1.5 billion in revenue last month — a 182 percent increase — and is on track to hit nearly ₦2 billion in October.
He called for sustained public enlightenment to educate Nigerians and business operators on how multiple checkpoints increase logistics costs and contribute to higher commodity prices.
Describing the NUJ visit as a morale booster, Adenuga commended journalists for their role in promoting transparency and fostering collaboration between institutions and the public.
In his remarks, NUJ Lagos State Chairman, Mr. Adeleye Ajayi, commended the achievements of the Seme Command and affirmed the union’s support for the Customs Service.
“We commend the Nigeria Customs Service at the Seme Border for its dedication, professionalism, and remarkable strides in securing our borders and facilitating legitimate trade,” Ajayi said. “However, we also confirm that multiple checkpoints exist along the Badagry–Seme corridor, and this must be urgently addressed.”
Ajayi praised Customs officers for their resilience, professionalism, and commitment to curbing smuggling and illicit trade despite operational challenges.
He also applauded the Command’s role in enhancing revenue collection, proper valuation, and documentation, which have contributed to economic stability.
As part of the visit, Comptroller Adenuga presented a commemorative plaque to the NUJ Chairman in recognition of his contributions to national development.
Other members of the NUJ delegation included Vice Chairman Philip Nwosu, Secretary Tunde Olalere, Assistant Secretary Olayide Awosanya, Internal Auditor Oluwakemi Ishola, Ex-Officio Alaba Igbaroola, and Chairman of the Lagos NUJ Media Investment Committee, Gbenga Faile.
