The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, underscored the critical role of Kebbi State in enhancing Nigeria's border security and facilitating regional trade. During a visit to Governor Nasir Idris at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi, Adeniyi highlighted that Kebbi's geographical positioning and its extensive borders with neighboring countries, especially the Republic of Benin and Niger, make it a pivotal state for customs operations.

Adeniyi pointed out that Kebbi hosts significant entry points, such as the Illela–Birnin Kebbi trade axis and the River Niger corridor, which are essential for managing the flow of goods and maintaining security. By strengthening inter-agency cooperation and reopening regulated border trade, the Customs Service aims to improve trade dynamics while ensuring the security of the nation’s borders. The statement, "When Kebbi coughs, the Nigeria Customs Service catches cold," emphasizes the interconnectedness of customs operations with the state's stability and efficiency.

Furthermore, the Customs chief acknowledged the contributions of Kebbi in producing professionals who have significantly impacted the service and the broader customs landscape, reinforcing the state’s importance not only as a geographical hub but also as a breeding ground for expertise in trade and border management. This recognition underlines the necessity for collaborative efforts between state governance and customs authorities to foster effective trade and security strategies in Nigeria.