The Nigeria Customs Service NCS has reaffirmed its resolve to intensify border security operations and protect the nation’s economy from the threats posed by criminal networks.
This reaffirmation came during a press briefing held at the Customs Training College, Ikeja, Lagos, by the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Adeniyi Adewale.
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The CGC, who was represented by the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, ACG Hussein Ejibunu, commended the recent operational successes achieved by the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ and Operation Whirlwind.
According to him, between 3 June and 18 July, 2025, the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ recorded 102 enforcement operations across the South-West zone, resulting in major interceptions of contraband items and the disruption of smuggling syndicates.
“The sustained operational tempo and intelligence-led enforcement have resulted in the seizure of goods with a combined Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦1,784,432,000”, he disclosed.
Notable among the items were; 3,500 bags of smuggled foreign parboiled rice (50kg each), equivalent to six trailer loads, 304kg of Cannabis Sativa, 7,900 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) concealed in jerrycans, 95 cartons of frozen poultry products.
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Others include; 54 bags and 20 bales of used clothing, 41 bags of used footwear, 14 units of used vehicles, 148 pieces of used tyres, 42 used gas cylinders, 31 air-conditioners.
The CGC also revealed that the Unit intercepted several misdeclared containers used to conceal contraband. These included a 40ft container of used tyres, a 20ft container of unregistered pharmaceuticals, and multiple containerised trucks ferrying prohibited goods such as used refrigerators, foreign supermarket products, and second-hand clothes. “These consignments were deliberately misdeclared in a bid to circumvent due process.” he said.
The operations further led to the arrest of nine suspects, some of whom have been granted administrative bail, while others remain under investigation.
In addition to the seizures, the Unit recovered ₦95,587,231.47 in underpaid import duties through the issuance of Demand Notices (DNs) on improperly declared cargoes.
The CGC commended the officers and men of the Service for their unwavering commitment and courage, describing them as “patriots who daily risk their lives to uphold the economic and territorial integrity of the nation.”
He also emphasised the importance of collaboration with traditional institutions, sister agencies, and the general public. “Our familiarisation visits are part of our broader strategy to enhance synergy and community trust.”