The Cessna Grand Caravan EX-208B that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) recently acquired represents a significant strategic improvement in the agency’s air surveillance capabilities.

An important turning point for the NCS’s aviation operations was reached on Friday, September 20, 2024, in Bartlesville, Washington, USA, when the new aircraft was inspected by Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

The aircraft, registered as 5N-BAA, is outfitted to support the air patrol and surveillance operations of the NCS. Operating on remote airstrips, the Cessna Grand Caravan, which is equipped with a sturdy PT6 Pratt and Whitney engine, is renowned for its tough versatility, short-field takeoff and landing capabilities, and suitability for border security operations in Nigeria.

Adeniyi emphasized the significance of this purchase during the inspection, pointing out that the aircraft is equipped with the cutting-edge Garmin G1000 Avionics system, enabling safe operations in low-visibility and daytime conditions.

For the Nigeria Customs Service Airwing, this aircraft will be revolutionary. Its ability to carry ten officers and its six-hour flying endurance will greatly improve our ability to perform border patrols and air surveillance,” he said.

The detection of smuggling routes, the deployment of armed personnel, and the quick support of ground operations will all be made possible by the Cessna Grand Caravan.

In line with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, Adeniyi said, “With this aircraft, we will strengthen our border patrol capabilities, allowing us to intercept illegal activities more effectively and provide quick extraction support when necessary.”

The aircraft is anticipated to function as a valuable resource for Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Ltd., providing logistical assistance and generating income for the organization.

Adeniyi emphasized the Cessna Grand Caravan’s cost-effectiveness, pointing out that, in comparison to other aircraft in its class, its operating expenses are comparatively low.

He continued, “This is a long-term investment for the Service that enhances the sustainability of our air surveillance programs in addition to improving our operational efficiency.”

The acquisition was hailed as a historic moment for the NCS aviation unit by Capt. Kuhi Mbaya, the Managing Director of Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Ltd. and Coordinator of Aircraft Operations.

The Nigeria Customs Service, he said, “is poised to reinvigorate its air border patrol activities with this aircraft, securing our borders more effectively and improving revenue generation for the Service and the nation.”

By strengthening border security and sending a clear message to economic saboteurs that the Nigeria Customs Service is now more prepared than ever to combat smuggling activities, the acquisition of the Cessna Grand Caravan is expected to provide tactical advantages to the agency.