The Area Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Command, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, has raised alarm over the growing number of unauthorized checkpoints along the Lagos–Badagry corridor, describing them as “economic roadblocks” threatening trade and tourism in the region.
Adenuga, who spoke during a courtesy visit by the executive members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council, said the rising proliferation of checkpoints by multiple security agencies was crippling business operations and discouraging cross-border trade.
According to him, “We have far too many checkpoints along this corridor, most of which are illegal. This is not only embarrassing but also counterproductive. It sends the wrong signal to our trading partners and stifles the free flow of goods.”
The comptroller emphasized that only two official checkpoints—Gbaji and Agbara—are recognized by Customs management, insisting that others must be dismantled to restore investor confidence and reduce logistics costs.
Beyond trade, Adenuga highlighted Badagry’s untapped tourism potential, noting that unnecessary checkpoints could deter tourists and investors alike. “Badagry is a historic town that should be a hub of trade and tourism, not a bottleneck,” he added.
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Despite the challenges, the Customs boss revealed that the Command generated ₦1.5 billion in revenue last month—a 182 per cent increase—and is on track to hit nearly ₦2 billion in October. He attributed the feat to improved surveillance, anti-smuggling operations, and better staff motivation.
Adenuga also called for stronger public awareness on the negative impact of multiple checkpoints, saying they contribute to higher prices of goods and economic inefficiency.
Responding, NUJ Lagos Chairman, Mr. Adeleye Ajayi, described the visit as a homecoming and praised the Customs Service at the Seme Border for professionalism, resilience, and integrity in the face of operational difficulties.
Ajayi confirmed the journalists’ own observation of multiple checkpoints along the Badagry–Seme axis and called for urgent government intervention. “The situation must be addressed immediately if Nigeria truly intends to promote ease of doing business,” he said.
He commended the Seme Command for its strides in revenue generation, anti-smuggling campaigns, and border security, noting that its adherence to global best practices had improved Nigeria’s international trade image.
As part of the visit, Comptroller Adenuga presented a plaque to the NUJ chairman in recognition of his contributions to national development.
