Keywords: Border Patrol, Smuggling Prevention, Nigerian Customs Service, Revenue Protection, Routine Activity Theory

Abstract

Smuggling activities along Nigeria’s borders remain a significant challenge to national security and revenue generation, particularly in Lagos State, a major commercial and port hub. This study examined the effect of border patrol strategies on the prevention of smuggling activities by the Nigerian Customs Service in Lagos State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to assess the effect of border patrol strategies on smuggling interception and on revenue protection. The study was anchored on Routine Activity Theory, which posits that crime occurs when motivated offenders converge with suitable targets in the absence of capable guardians, emphasizing the role of law enforcement and surveillance in crime prevention. A secondary research design was employed, utilizing documented data from Nigerian Customs Service annual reports, government publications, journal articles, and credible online databases covering patrol operations, seizures, and revenue performance in Lagos State. Data were analyzed using descriptive and content analysis to identify patterns and trends. Findings revealed that intensified joint patrol operations, intelligence-led surveillance, and inter-agency collaboration significantly increased smuggling interception rates, while also contributing to progressive growth in customs revenue and duty recovery. Based on the findings, the study recommends that the Nigerian Customs Service further expand patrol coverage and deploy advanced surveillance technologies across Lagos borders. It also advocates for institutionalized inter-agency collaboration and continuous compliance monitoring to sustain revenue protection and strengthen smuggling prevention. The study concludes that robust border patrol strategies serve as critical instruments for national security, economic protection, and effective governance in Lagos State.

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Published: 2026

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