The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has once again highlighted its commitment to global security cooperation. Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, took part in the 19th Defence Services Asia Exhibition and Conference (DSA 2026) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The event, which took place at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), brought together over 1,400 companies and key stakeholders in defence technology, electronic warfare, and homeland security. It was officially opened by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Call for Coordinated Global Action
Speaking as a Special Guest at the Police–Private Security Dialogue on Cross-Border Crime and Transnational Networks, Adeniyi stressed the urgent need for coordinated global responses to emerging security threats. The session was organized under the Asia Pacific Security Association Malaysia International Security Summit (AMISST) 2026 and brought together security leaders from 14 countries across Asia and the Pacific.
“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,” Adeniyi stated. He highlighted the increasing sophistication of transnational criminal networks, noting that narcotics trafficking, wildlife crime, financial fraud, and terrorism financing are becoming more interconnected. According to him, enforcement strategies must reflect this reality through intelligence sharing and joint operations.
Three-Pillar Approach
Drawing from the Nigeria Customs Service experience, the CGC outlined a three-pillar approach focused on technology adoption, institutional collaboration, and capacity building. He emphasized that modern enforcement requires advanced tools and skilled personnel capable of responding to emerging crime typologies. “We must invest in technology, strengthen partnerships, and continuously build the capacity of our officers to stay ahead of criminal networks that are constantly evolving,” he said.
Adeniyi also referenced the World Customs Organisation (WCO) frameworks, noting that these instruments provide critical guidance to member administrations in tackling cross-border crime. He added that criminal patterns originating from different regions have global implications, reinforcing the need for collective international action.
