By Innocent Orok
“We are gathered here today to provide an update on the Unit’s activities and achievements over the past few weeks particularly our relentless efforts to dismantle smuggling syndicates, curb illicit trade, and disrupt criminal networks operating within our area of responsibility” , CGC Adewale Adeniyi
Again the Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi has reiterated the Service’s determination to curb smuggling and disrupt criminal networks by unpatriotic importers and their agents .
Adeniyi represented by Assistant Comptroller General in- charge of Finance and Administration, ACG HK Ejibuono, while briefing journalists at the Customs training College in Lagos on the activities of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A and Operation Whirlwind on Friday said the operational overview
in the past four weeks, from June 3rd to July 18th, 2025, has seen the Units sustained a high operational tempo across the southwestern states.
“Our intelligence-led operations have enabled us to proactively intercept smuggled goods, disrupt illicit supply chains, and strengthen border enforcement.
“During this period, a total of 102 enforcement interventions were recorded, leading to the interception of a wide range of prohibited and smuggled goods.”
The breakdown of the major seizures are , 3,500 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each) – equivalent to 6 trailer loads, 304kg of Cannabis Sativa (Indian Hemp), 7,900 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) – in 316 jerry cans of 25 liters each.
Others are, 54 bags and 20 bales of used clothing, 41 sacks and bags of used footwear, 14 units of used (Tokunbo) vehicles, 148 pieces of used tyres, 42 used gas cylinders, 31 units of air conditioning systems and 95 cartons of frozen poultry products.
Other notable seizures include, 1X40FT container fully loaded with used tyres, 1X20FT container containing medicaments, 2X40FT containers and one truck with container body conveying used fridges, foreign supermarket items and used clothes . According to the Customs boss all the containers were wrongly declared to invade duties.
“Nine suspects were arrested in connection with these seizures. While some were granted administrative bail, others have been, or will be, handed over to relevant security agencies for further investigation and possible prosecution”, he said.
The CGC also said that the valuation of all the seizures
has a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N1,784,432,000.
Assuring on commitment to professionalism and collaboration, Adeniyi said
“The Federal Operations Unit remains deeply committed to executing its mandate with the utmost professionalism and in strict adherence to extant regulations.
“Our operations are conducted with restraint, respect for human rights, and a commitment to peaceful enforcement.
“To enhance synergy and support for our activities, I have embarked on familiarization visits to traditional institutions and sister security agencies across the zone. These visits aim to deepen collaboration in our collective effort to combat trans-border crimes and enhance national security.”
He paid tribute to Officers and Men “These achievements would not be possible without the dedication and courage of our gallant officers, who risk their lives daily to secure our borders and protect the national economy. Their sacrifices are commendable and deserve public recognition.”
On revenue recovery through Demand Notices (DN) he said
between June 3rd and July 18th, 2025, the Unit recovered a total of ₦95,587,231.47 in underpaid duties.
While on trade facilitation CGC Adeniyi assured “While we maintain vigilance against smuggling and fraud, the FOU remains a strong partner in trade facilitation. We continue to support legitimate trade through intelligence-driven operations that strike a balance between security enforcement and economic growth ensuring that lawful traders are not unduly hindered in the process.”
He assured that the milestones recorded are a testament to the Nigerian Customs Service’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s economy and ensuring national security.
