The Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, has intercepted contraband goods worth N1.5 billion and arrested four suspects within a three-week operation.
Comptroller Muhammed Shuaibu, the Customs Area Controller, revealed this during a briefing in Lagos while handing over seizures to NDLEA and NAFDAC officials.
Shuaibu, who assumed duty on April 23, confirmed the seizures with a Duty Paid Value of N1.5 billion were made between April 23 and May 16.
“The Nigeria Customs Service remains steadfast in combating smuggling, counterfeits, and other illicit trade,” he said.
The unit intercepted seven 20-foot containers of illicit items, including used tyres and vehicles, foreign parboiled rice, new shoes, new clothes, and new bags. Other seizures included 4,085 bags of 50kg foreign rice, 15 foreign-used vehicles, 82 packs of Tramadol, and 246 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa.
Shuaibu said the command generated N20.7 million through demand notices, auctioned perishables, and petroleum products from irregular importation.
He added that he had shifted the unit’s approach to intelligence-driven operations, reducing delays caused by traditional stop-and-search methods.
NDLEA’s Festac Area Commander, Abdul Maiyaki, praised Customs for handing over the seized cannabis and a suspect. “We thank sister agencies for their ongoing support in helping NDLEA fulfil its mandate,” he said.
NAFDAC Taskforce Chairman, Shuiba Muhammad, also praised Customs for securing the nation against harmful substances. “Stopping such drugs from circulation helps lower the country’s insecurity levels,” he said.
Shuaibu urged the public to report suspicious smuggling activities and advised honest declarations to avoid clearance issues.
“Efficient trade facilitation is crucial for economic growth, job creation, and regional integration in today’s global economy,” he said.
