The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has expressed concern over the rising number of illegal security checkpoints and persistent unwholesome practices along the Lagos–Abidjan Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) corridor, describing the situation as a major obstacle to trade facilitation and a threat to Nigeria’s national image.

The proliferation of illegal checkpoints, extortion, and other border-related crimes along the corridor has become a national concern, prompting the NCS to convene a high-level stakeholders’ meeting aimed at reclaiming the route for legitimate commerce and travel.

The meeting brought together representatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Nigerian Army, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), traditional rulers, freight forwarders, trade associations, and community leaders.

Speaking at the meeting, Controller of the Seme Customs Command, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, urged security agencies and border communities to collaborate in tackling issues that undermine Nigeria’s image and disrupt regional trade.

Adenuga decried how multiple illegal roadblocks have turned a vital trade route into a nightmare for traders, tourists, and travelers, noting that while the Benin Republic enjoys smoother border operations, Nigeria’s side is marred by extortion, harassment, and corruption often perpetrated by unauthorised “camp boys” posing as security officials.

“The checkpoints we have on the roads are too many; it is disgraceful,” he said. “The Comptroller-General of Customs has directed that checkpoints be reduced, and under no circumstances should anyone delay legitimate business. Security agencies without any legal mandate to operate checkpoints along the corridor must steer clear.”

The Seme Customs boss also highlighted the disparity in border control between Nigeria and the Benin Republic, pointing out that the latter has a more coordinated system for intercepting suspicious vehicles without impeding lawful trade.

Community leaders at the meeting echoed his concerns. Joseph Agoro, one of the local leaders, attributed much of the conflict along the border to the activities of “camp boys” allegedly recruited by some security agencies. He described the practice as a national embarrassment, citing frequent harassment of commuters and residents by impostors.

The Oba of Kweme Kingdom in Badagry, Oba Sejiro Ogungbe, commended the Customs Service for its efforts in reducing clashes between officers and smugglers, which he said had often resulted in avoidable deaths in border communities.

Representing the Nigerian Ambassador to the Benin Republic, Ambassador Olukayode Olugbenga Aluko, the Defence Attaché, Colonel S. Yahaya, assured that resolutions reached at the summit would be implemented to restore order and ensure the smooth flow of legitimate trade along the corridor.