*Recovers N39, 269, 688.71 via Issuing Demand Notices
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, Ikeja, Lagos has successfully seized goods valued at ₦1,188,830,600.00.
The seizure which is the result of its continued onslaught against smugglers in order to protect the nation’s economy was actualized in the South West geo-political zone, especially Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, and Lagos States.
The NCS, FOU. Zone A, Ikeja, Lagos which has Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu as its Customs Area Controller (CAC) said it will continue to intensify its efforts to combat smuggling operations within the South West geo-political zone.
It affirmed that the successful seizure reflects the seriousness of its mandate, especially anti-smuggling activities.
While addressing news men at the command headquarters, Ikeja, Lagos Tuesday, Shuaibu averred that the strategic initiatives being employed to tackle economic sabotage gave men and officers an edge in their fight against smugglers.
The Customs Chief highlighted the importance of intelligence-driven methodologies just as he revealed that the command executed no fewer than 125 successful operations over a span of six weeks, leading to significant seizure results across multiple categories of contraband.
Items confiscated include 5,015 bags of 50kg foreign rice, numerous used vehicles, a sizable quantity of cannabis, and a host of pharmaceuticals deemed harmful to consumers.
He emphasized that such operations are not merely about confiscation but are essential for revenue protection and consumers safety.
“Our actions not only target immediate smuggling threats but also aim to dismantle networks that undermine our economy,” he said.
The CAC noted the importance of inter-agency collaboration even as he announced that the seized narcotics and pharmaceuticals would be transferred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), ensuring they are managed appropriately.
He sent a clear message to those engaging in these illegal activities as he reiterated the importance of adhering to Federal Government fiscal policies.
According to him, the 2016 ban on the importation of parboiled rice through land borders remains. Therefore, violators would face serious repercussions. There is no going back on it. This operation underscores the Nigerian Customs Service unyielding stance against economic sabotage and their proactive measures to protect the integrity and safety of the national economy.
Shuaibu also disclosed that from September 1 to October 7, 2025, the command recovered ₦39,269,688.71 by issuing demand notices and taking action against under-valuations.
He stated that while maintaining strict enforcement, the command is also dedicated to “promoting legitimate trade and ensuring that lawful businesses can operate without undue obstacles.”
Continuing, he said: “The Federal Operations Unit Zone A remains steadfast in its dedication to fighting smuggling and protecting Nigeria’s economy. Through ongoing intelligence-driven operations and the strategic use of advanced surveillance technologies, the unit will continue to secure Nigeria’s borders, safeguard national revenue, and contribute to the nation’s economic development”.
