The Nigerian Army on Tuesday expressed it readiness to partner with the Nigeria Customs Service toward restoring socio-economic activities in the sub-Saharan region.
The General Officer Commanding 7 Division, Brig.-Gen. Bulama Biu, disclosed this in a statement signed by by Brig.-Gen. Texas Chukwu, Director, Army Public Relations in Maiduguri.
Chukwu said that Bulama made the pledge during a courtesy visit by the Comptroller of Customs Borno and Yobe Commands, Mr Abdulllahi Biu, to the Maiduguri Headquarters of 7 Division.
He expressed delight over the posting of the new comptroller, considering his vast experience and track record of commitment to national duty.
He said that no single agency could confront the terrorism challenge alone, stressing that with partnership, the situation in the North-East would be resolved in the fastest possible means.
He further said that with the vast knowledge of the comptroller and also being a “great team player”, r they would successfully tackle the Boko Haram menace.
He also commended the cordial relationship and synergy between the Nigerian Army and Customs, adding that inter-agency collaboration with other security agencies was already yielding results and urged him to key into the collaboration.
Biu highlighted the high volume of transnational trade along Gamboru area, while acknowledging the challenge troops faced when escorting vehicles on such difficult terrain and route.
According to Chukwu, the comptroller said the purpose of the visit to officially interact with the Acting GOC.
Bui, he said, commended the efforts of the Nigerian Army in the fight against insurgency and in creating a peaceful atmosphere in spite of the destruction of some trade routes around Gamboru.
He solicited the army’s assistance to make those transnational routes more secure for trade to thrive, noting that the trade provides employment to the teeming youths of the region and boosts revenue to government coffers.
Biu also affirmed his readiness to collaborate with the army toward ending insurgency and would be readily available when needed.
He noted that customs had dual responsibility of securing national borders and facilitating trade.
Chukwu said that the comptroller was accompanied some senior customs officials.(NAN)
