Nigeria Customs acquires Cessna Grand Caravan to boost air surveillance operations
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 air wing 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 airstrip, making it ideally suited for border security operations in Nigeria.
CGC Adeniyi, while stressing the importance of the acquisition, noted that the aircraft was 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,” Adeniyi stated.
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 aligned the move with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.
In addition, 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.
CGC Adeniyi who underscored the cost-efficiency of the Cessna Grand Caravan, noted that its operational costs were 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 said.
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.
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