Author: Abass Quadri.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Ogun I Area Command has reaffirmed its commitment to combating smuggling through stronger collaboration with key stakeholders, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Speaking at a press briefing in Abeokuta on Thursday, 6 March 2025, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Muhammad Shuaibu, stressed that partnerships with stakeholders are not just for information sharing but are crucial for improving decision making and fostering public trust.
“It is imperative that we continue to sensitise and educate the public on Customs’ pivotal role in fostering national security and economic stability. Alongside this, we will relentlessly enforce government policies in strict adherence to the law and international best practices”, the CAC said.
Comptroller Shuaibu revealed that in the past two weeks, the command’s effort in combating smuggling has led to the successful interception of prohibited items, with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N279,595,038.
Some of the seizures include 2,145 foreign rice, 612 second-hand clothing bales, 843 used tyre pieces, 6,625 Premium Motor Spirit (auctioned due to its combustible nature), and Cannabis Sativa in various sizes.
In addition to enforcement activities, the CAC noted that the command generated N9,694,072 from baggage assessments and PMS auction sales, boosting its revenue profile.
Receiving the seized narcotics, NDLEA Deputy Commander of Narcotics, Ogun State, Alexander Nyiginde, praised Customs for its unwavering support in the fight against drug smuggling. “We have signed an MOU with Customs for the purpose of synergy in the fight against drug abuse. Today’s event is a result of such agreement.
In another development, Comptroller Shuaibu engaged stakeholders on Monday, 3 March 2025, on the need to enhance legitimate cross-border trade between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, emphasising collaboration as a key strategy for overcoming trade barriers.
The meeting was attended by officers and men of the command, the Secretary-General Inter-Border Security Forum, security agencies, and clearing agents from Nigeria and Benin Republic.
