Adeniyi Revitalizes Airwing Operations

As Customs Acquires Anti-smuggling Operational Aircraft

BY FUNMI ALUKO

The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has ordered the immediate commencement of the revitalization of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) air wing ahead the delivery of a Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft it recently acquired to boost its operations, aimed at radically impacting anti-smuggling activities.

According to a release by the Service Spokesman, Abdullahi Maiwada on behalf of the CGC, the acquisition of a Cessna Grand Caravan EX-208B marks a pivotal moment for the NCS air wing operations.

The statement reads: “The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has taken a significant step towards strengthening its air surveillance capabilities with the acquisition of a Cessna Grand Caravan EX-208B. The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, inspected the newly acquired aircraft on Friday, 20 September 2024, in Bartlesville, Washington, USA, marking a pivotal moment for the NCS airwing operations.

“The aircraft, registered as 5N-BAA is set to enhance the Services’ air patrol and surveillance efforts. Powered by the reliable PT6 Pratt and Whitney engine, the Cessna Grand Caravan is globally recognised for its rugged versatility, short-field take-off and landing capabilities, and ability to operate on remote airstrips—making it ideally suited for border security operations in Nigeria.”

The customs helmsman was quoted as saying that the importance of the acquisition cannot be overemphasised, noting that the aircraft is fitted with the modern Garmin G1000 Avionics cockpit system, enabling operations under day, night, and low-visibility conditions.

“This aircraft will be a game-changer for the Nigeria Customs Services’ Airwing. Its ability to carry 10 officers, coupled with its six-hour aerial endurance, will significantly enhance our capacity for air surveillance and border patrol.”

The statement inform that the Cessna Grand Caravan will play a crucial role in air patrols aimed at detecting smuggling routes, deploying armed personnel, and providing swift support for ground operations.

“With this aircraft, we will strengthen our air border patrol capabilities, which will not only help us intercept illegal activities but also provide quick extraction support when necessary,” CGC Adeniyi explained, aligning the move with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.

Additionally, the aircraft will serve as a strategic asset for Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Ltd, offering logistical support and revenue generation for the Service. Adeniyi underscored the cost-efficiency of the Cessna Grand Caravan, noting that its operational costs are relatively low compared to other aircraft in its class.

“This is a long-term investment for the Service that not only enhances our operational efficiency but also contributes to the sustainability of our air surveillance programs,” he added.

Capt. Kuhi Mbaya, the Aircraft Operations Coordinator and Managing Director of Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Ltd, lauded the acquisition as a milestone for the NCS aviation unit.

“With this aircraft, the Nigeria Customs Service is poised to revitalize its air border patrol activities, securing our borders more effectively and improving revenue generation for both the Service and the nation,” Capt. Mbaya remarked.

The acquisition of the Cessna Grand Caravan is expected to provide significant tactical advantages to the Nigeria Customs Service, tightening border security, and sending a clear signal to economic saboteurs that the Service is better equipped than ever to combat smuggling activities.