Nigeria Customs Confiscates 3,832 Bags of Smuggled Rice in One Month
The Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, Ikeja, of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted contraband worth N1.72 billion in the past month. This major crackdown targeted smugglers attempting to bring illegal goods into the country.
Massive Seizure of Contraband Goods
During a media briefing in Lagos, the Customs Area Controller of FOU Zone A, Kola Oladeji, revealed the details of the latest operation. He announced that officers seized 3,832 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, equivalent to seven trucks. Additionally, they intercepted 27 used (Tokunbo) vehicles, 494 jerrycans of petrol amounting to 14,820 litres, and 27 bales of second-hand clothing.
Other confiscated items included 95 bags of charcoal and 3,643kg of Cannabis Sativa. In connection with these seizures, six suspects were arrested and are currently under investigation. Oladeji confirmed that all seized goods have a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N1.72 billion.
Strengthening Border Security
He emphasized that FOU Zone A remains dedicated to enforcing the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, ensuring that import and export regulations are strictly followed. Officers have intensified border surveillance across the South-West to crack down on economic saboteurs.
“These operations focus on reducing smuggling, increasing revenue generation, and facilitating legitimate trade. Our patrol teams have recorded significant successes through swift sting operations and other enforcement efforts,” he said.
Over the review period, the unit made 82 interceptions, demonstrating their relentless efforts in combating illegal trade. Oladeji acknowledged that these achievements came through hard work, with officers spending long hours on patrol to stop smuggling.
Commitment to Fighting Smuggling
Oladeji reassured the public that customs officials will not relent in their fight against illegal trade. He stressed the need for continuous public engagement to create awareness about the negative effects of smuggling on the economy and society.
“We are committed to tackling illegal cross-border trade and ensuring compliance with government policies. Our goal is to make the trade environment more transparent and fair for legitimate businesses,” he added.
Boosting Revenue and Trade Facilitation
In addition to these seizures, the unit recovered N72.4 million through debit notes issued to importers who underpaid duties at seaports. Oladeji highlighted that Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi has introduced new trade facilitation tools to enhance revenue generation and support economic growth.
Initiatives such as the Time Release Study (TRS), Advance Ruling, and the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) scheme have improved customs efficiency and investor confidence. To align with these reforms, the unit has restructured its patrol teams in Lagos, removing unnecessary trade barriers and making the business environment more conducive.
