The Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun I Area Command, in the first 27 days of 2025, says it has intercepted bags of smuggled rice, cutlasses, among other contrabands, with a Duty Paid Value, DPV, of N77.48 million.
The seizures, according to the Comptroller, Mohammed Shuaibu, are part of its ongoing efforts to combat smuggling, ensure national security, and safeguard Nigeria’s borders and economy.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Idi-Iroko Customs House on Tuesday, Shuaibu disclosed that 2,002 bags of smuggled rice weighing 50kg each, 6,180 pieces of cutlasses, and 6,375 litres of PMS were seized, amounting to a DPV of N77,476,185.
Shuaibu said, “I am pleased to inform you that, from the 1st of January to the 27th of January 2025, the command recorded significant seizures.
“These seizures include 2,002 bags of smuggled rice weighing 50kg each, 6,180 pieces of cutlasses, and 6,375 litres of PMS, among others. The intercepted items during this period bring the total Duty Paid Value (DPV) to N77.48 million.
“These seizures reflect our relentless efforts to curtail smuggling activities and enforce compliance with Customs regulations.”
The Comptroller disclosed that the command generated N275,835,406 in revenue in 2024 from a number of sources, including PMS auction sales, confiscated cars, and baggage assessments.
Shuaibu added that 1,019 parcels of coconut-sized cannabis sativa, 25 book-sized parcels, and 140 bread-sized parcels were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Idiroko Special Command.
“The Ogun I Area Command generated a total revenue of N275,835,406 in 2024. This revenue was derived from baggage assessments, proceeds from auction sales of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and vehicles. The feat reflects the diligence and professionalism of officers as well as the cooperation of compliant traders.
“The Command recorded significant seizures through intelligence-driven operations. Items intercepted and seized in 2024 include: 16,712 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 50kg each, 139,881 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 940 rounds of live ammunition, 71 sacks and 3,253 parcels of cannabis sativa, 586 bales of used clothing, 86 vehicles used for smuggling activities, and 18 units of foreign-used vehicles.
“Others include 2,150 pieces of used pneumatic tyres, 760 pieces of donkey skin, 3,766 cartons of frozen poultry products, and 85 bags of imported flour, all at a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N1,267,504,035,” he added.
Comptroller Shuaibu expressed deep gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, as well as the entire management of the Nigeria Customs Service, for their unwavering support.
In addition, he commended the troops and officers of Ogun I Area Command for their professionalism, perseverance, and dedication to their duties despite the difficulties they encounter.
While thanking the media, stakeholders, community, and traditional leaders for their continued cooperation in the battle against economic crimes and smuggling, he urged members of the public to keep the Command informed so that it may better safeguard society from the illegal trafficking of narcotics, among other illicit activities.
