The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made significant strides in combating smuggling and enhancing national security, highlighted by recent interceptions of contraband goods and record-breaking revenue generation.
Major Contraband Seizures
The Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, recently intercepted seven trucks loaded with over 2,000 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice. The operation, conducted along Ogun Waterside and other parts of the South-West, stemmed from intelligence gathering and surveillance efforts.
Kola Oladeji, Customs Area Comptroller for the unit, explained that officers discovered the contraband along riversides, packed in readiness for transportation. While no arrests were made as the smugglers fled upon sighting law enforcement, Oladeji emphasized the commitment to border security, stating, “We are not relenting in safeguarding the borders.”
Similarly, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, revealed the interception of arms shipments at Onne Seaport, including 844 rifles and 112,500 rounds of live ammunition, through intelligence-led operations. These actions disrupted the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, a persistent threat to national security.
2024 Revenue Milestone
Under Adeniyi’s leadership, the NCS achieved a record-breaking ₦5.1 trillion in revenue for 2024. Speaking at the 18th Africa Security Watch Conference in Doha, Qatar, Adeniyi highlighted the innovative use of technology and improved compliance frameworks as key drivers of this achievement.
He stated, “This achievement reflects the efficiency and resilience of the Customs workforce and underscores our commitment to balancing security enforcement with trade facilitation.”
Enhanced Border Control
Adeniyi described the vital role of border management in national security, emphasizing that borders are not just geographical boundaries but gateways for protecting citizens, safeguarding the economy, and fostering security.
The Nigeria Customs Act 2023 has further empowered the Service to address emerging threats, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen collaborations with domestic and international stakeholders.
Broader Achievements
The NCS has also expanded its enforcement efforts beyond traditional contraband:
- Wildlife Trafficking: Officers intercepted 4,200kg of pangolin scales and ivory, reaffirming the Service’s commitment to biodiversity conservation.
- Illicit Drugs: Collaborating with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, the NCS intercepted significant quantities of illegal substances.
- Petroleum Smuggling: Operation Whirlwind, in partnership with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, led to the interception of over 695,000 litres of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
Leveraging Technology
The use of geospatial technologies, such as satellite feeds and geo-mapping, has enhanced surveillance and enforcement capabilities, making operations more effective and sustainable.
Call for Continued Collaboration
Adeniyi emphasized the importance of collaboration in maintaining national security. He praised the Customs workforce and stakeholders for their role in achieving these milestones and encouraged further partnerships to address evolving threats.
Looking Forward
As the NCS continues its efforts to combat smuggling, enforce border control, and protect national resources, the focus remains on leveraging technology and intelligence-led operations to ensure sustainable and impactful results.
These achievements not only highlight the NCS’s dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s economy and security but also set a benchmark for excellence in customs administration across the continent.
