The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Defence Research and Development Bureau (DRDB) have successfully tested a locally developed airboat aimed at boosting maritime security and anti-smuggling operations. The exercise was held on Wednesday, 3 September 2025, at Jabi Lake, Abuja.
The innovative vessel, designed to operate in shallow and difficult-to-access waterways, was showcased before officers from both agencies. Experts at the demonstration underscored its unique capabilities, described it as a valuable addition to Nigeria’s security infrastructure.
Speaking at the event, Comptroller Haniel Haddison, who oversee Special Duties at the NCS Headquarters, hailed the innovation as a milestone in indigenous technology and a major step in enhancing operational capacity.
“This is a welcome idea for the Nigeria Customs Service and we commend the efforts of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, to ensure that we add value in our equipment,” Haddison said.
He added: “This is a very good collaboration, and that is what the Comptroller-General of Customs stands for synergy and collaboration with sister agencies, particularly as it relates to capacity building. This will add value to the competency and capability of the Nigeria Customs Service.”
Also speaking, the Director of Maritime, Research and Development at the DRDB, Rear Admiral Suleiman El-Ladan, highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration in tackling evolving maritime security threats. He stressed that such partnerships were key to addressing smuggling and other transnational crimes.
The event ended with the Director General of the DRDB presenting souvenirs to two senior Customs officers in recognition of their participation and commitment to the joint initiative.
