The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) announced on Sunday that it has acquired a Cessna Grand Caravan Ex-208B aircraft to enhance its anti-smuggling operations across the country.
In a statement, the Service’s National Public Relations Officer, Abdulahi Maiwada, noted that the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, inspected the newly acquired aircraft in Bartlesville, Washington, USA.
This acquisition marks a significant advancement for the NCS’s Air Wing operations. The aircraft, registered as 5N-BAA, is designed to improve the Service’s air patrol and surveillance efforts.
Powered by a PT6 Pratt and Whitney engine, the Cessna Grand Caravan is known for its rugged versatility and its ability to take off and land on short and remote airstrips, making it ideal for border security operations in Nigeria.
CGC Adeniyi highlighted the importance of this new aircraft, which features a modern Garmin G1000 Avionics cockpit system, allowing it to operate during the day, at night, and in low-visibility conditions.
“This aircraft will be a game-changer for the Nigeria Customs Service’s Air Wing. Its ability to carry 10 officers, along with its six-hour aerial endurance, will significantly enhance our capacity for air surveillance and border patrol,” he stated.
The Cessna Grand Caravan will be crucial for air patrols aimed at identifying smuggling routes, deploying armed personnel, and providing quick support for ground operations.
“With this aircraft, we will strengthen our air border patrol capabilities, helping us intercept illegal activities and providing rapid extraction support when necessary,” CGC Adeniyi added. This initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda.
Additionally, the statement indicated that the aircraft will serve as a strategic asset for Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Ltd, offering logistical support and aiding in revenue generation for the Service.
Adeniyi also pointed out the cost-efficiency of the Cessna Grand Caravan, noting that its operational costs are lower compared to other aircraft in its class. “This is a long-term investment for the Service that enhances our operational efficiency and contributes to the sustainability of our air surveillance programs,” he explained.
Capt. Kuhi Mbaya, the Aircraft Operations Coordinator and Managing Director of Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Ltd, praised the acquisition as a milestone for the NCS aviation unit.
“With this aircraft, the Nigeria Customs Service is ready to revitalize its air border patrol activities, securing our borders more effectively and improving revenue generation for both the Service and the nation,” he remarked.
The acquisition of the Cessna Grand Caravan is expected to provide significant tactical advantages to the NCS, tightening border security and sending a clear message to economic saboteurs that the Service is now better equipped to combat smuggling activities.
