Customs deploys geospatial intelligence to tackle smuggling along Benin border

By Onu Okorie

Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded six major seizure cases and detained four suspects following a joint border security operation with Benin Customs, using geospatial intelligence to identify smuggling hotspots and strengthen enforcement along the two countries’ shared border.
The operation, codenamed Operation GEOCONTROL, was conducted from June 29 to July 8, 2026, under the World Customs Organisation (WCO)–Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Joint Project, with a focus on using technology and intelligence sharing to disrupt illicit cross-border activities.
According to the NCS, the operation targeted 10 areas, with the Nigerian Customs recording six significant seizure cases involving narcotics, pharmaceuticals, rice, petroleum products and used clothing. The Benin Customs Administration separately reported 31 seizures during the joint exercise.
The operation marked the first field deployment of geospatial intelligence capabilities developed through the GEOINT Master Trainer Programme for West Africa, completed in February 2026.
Unlike conventional border enforcement approaches that rely heavily on physical patrols and checkpoints, the initiative used geospatial analysis, hotspot mapping and aerial surveillance to identify vulnerable locations and high-risk movement patterns.
The intelligence gathered helped both Customs administrations direct operational resources towards priority areas while improving the exchange of information and coordination of enforcement activities.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, the NCS said the operation demonstrated the practical value of technology-driven border management in tackling smuggling and other forms of illicit trade.
The Service said the exercise also provided an opportunity to apply skills acquired through the regional GEOINT training programme to real-world enforcement challenges.
The post-operation report, dated August 2, 2026, documented the seizures and operational lessons from the exercise, highlighting the role of international cooperation in strengthening border surveillance and disrupting illegal trade.
The NCS noted that smuggling poses threats to national security, lawful commerce and government revenue, stressing that closer cooperation with neighbouring Customs administrations remains critical to addressing cross-border criminal activities.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to expanding intelligence sharing, adopting relevant technological tools and strengthening partnerships with international organisations and neighbouring countries to improve border security while facilitating legitimate trade.