The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have joined forces to tackle the growing threat of illegal wildlife trafficking, which poses significant economic and environmental consequences.
During a courtesy visit to the EFCC’s Zonal Office in Ibadan, Oyo State, Comptroller Joseph Adelaja, Controller of the Oyo/Osun Command, emphasized the importance of curbing smuggling and financial crimes that threaten Nigeria’s economic stability. He highlighted the need for effective collaboration between security agencies, commending the EFCC’s efforts in combating economic and financial crimes.
Adelaja pledged to strengthen collaboration with the EFCC through intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and capacity-building initiatives. He stressed, “There is a need for concerted efforts to combat illegal wildlife trafficking, a growing concern with economic and environmental implications.”
In response, EFCC’s Zonal Director, Hajia Hauwa Garba Ringim, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to enhancing inter-agency cooperation. She stated, “We express our readiness to collaborate with the NCS in addressing financial crimes and illegal trade activities that could hinder the nation’s economic progress.”
The partnership aims to curb trans-border financial crimes and illegal trade activities, promoting economic stability and environmental protection in Nigeria.