By Sandra Chukwunyere
In a major blow to smuggling activities in the South-East, the NigeriaCustomsService (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C, Owerri, has intercepted a large consignment of foreign vegetable oil with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N403.5 million.
The seizure, which followed intelligence-driven operations by officers of the Unit, underscores the Service’s renewed determination to combat smuggling and protect local industries from the adverse effects of illicit trade.
Speaking while presenting the seizure, the Comptroller of FOU Zone C, Bashir Balogun, said the operation was carried out based on credible intelligence and effective coordination among Customs personnel.
Bashir Balogun,the Comptroller of FOU Zone C.
According to him, the seized items comprise 3,310 jerrycans of 25-litre “Super Delicious” vegetable oil, 10 jerrycans of the same brand in 10-litre containers, and 20 cartons each of 5-litre and 3-litre sunflower vegetable oil.
Balogun explained that the products were intercepted in two separate operations. The first truck was apprehended along the 9th Mile corridor in Enugu State on May 9, while the second was intercepted on the Onitsha–Agbor Highway on June 7, 2026
He disclosed that the seized products have a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N403,491,000.
The Customs boss described the seizure as a major setback for smuggling networks, stressing that the illegal importation of vegetable oil undermines local industries, discourages investment, threatens jobs, and negatively affects the nation’s foreign exchange earnings.
He reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to enforcing the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2022 and supporting Federal Government policies aimed at protecting local manufacturers, encouraging local production, and strengthening the nation’s economy.
Balogun also warned smugglers and other economic saboteurs to abandon their illicit activities, noting that the Service will continue to deploy intelligence-led operations and advanced enforcement strategies to protect national economic interests, public health, and security.
He added that the seized items remain in Customs custody pending the conclusion of investigations and the initiation of appropriate legal procedures.
The Comptroller further assured stakeholders and members of the public that the Unit remains resolute in its mandate to suppress smuggling, facilitate legitimate trade, and contribute to the overall economic growth and development of the country.
