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By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS) Ikeja, Lagos, Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, has disclosed that the unit has generated N20,792,372.99 through demand notices and auction sales of seized petroleum products since he took over as Comptroller on April 23, 2025.
Speaking at his maiden press briefing, Comptroller Shuaibu said the unit has remained true to its commitment to leveraging experience to effectively navigate the complexities of the unit.
“The unit has also recorded significant successes in its anti-smuggling operations, intercepting and seizing 7x20ft containers filled with various illicit items within the Lagos metropolis”
The seized items include used tyres and vehicles, foreign parboiled rice, new shoes, and new clothes. Additionally, the unit has seized 4,085 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 15 illegally imported foreign-used vehicles, 82 packs of Tramadol, and 246 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa.
The CAC said the Nigeria Customs Service remains resolute in its efforts to combat smuggling, counterfeit products, and other forms of illicit trade. He commended the unit’s officers for their dedication and urged them to maintain the momentum. The seized items have a duty paid value (DPV) of N1,501,312,425.00.
Shuaibu said the unit will continue to collaborate with sister security agencies and border communities to dismantle the networks engaged in illicit activities. The seized cannabis sativa will be handed over to the National Drug Law and Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the tramadol capsules will be handed over to the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for further investigation and prosecution.
The Comptroller urged the general public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to smuggling or illicit trade. He also urged declarants to remain honest in their declarations to avoid unnecessary bottlenecks. The unit’s intelligence-driven operations are designed to create a more efficient, transparent, and inclusive trading environment that will benefit stakeholders and the public.
⁰In line with the dictate of the NCS to foster inter-agency collaboration, the unit will continue to work with other agencies to combat smuggling and illicit trade. The Comptroller expressed gratitude to the CGC and the management team for the opportunity to serve as Comptroller FOU A.
“The unit’s efforts are aimed at unlocking economic potential, creating jobs, and fostering regional integration. With the unit’s commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities, the future of trade facilitation in Nigeria looks bright” he said.
