Nigeria Customs Service Recovers N72.4 Million from Fraudulent Importers, Seizes Contraband Worth N1.72 Billion
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, Ikeja, has recovered N72.4 million from fraudulent importers and clearing agents who underpaid Customs duty to the Federal Government at Lagos seaports.
Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos, the Customs Area Controller of the unit, Compt. Kola Oladeji, stated that the Comptroller General of the Service, Adewale Adeniyi, has introduced several trade facilitation tools to boost national revenue and economic growth.
“The unit recovered a total sum of N72.4 million through the issuance of Demand Notices (DN) due to irregular declaration of consignments. We will continue to enforce the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 to prevent revenue losses related to import and export activities,” he said.
Contraband Seizures Worth N1.72 Billion
The unit also announced the interception of contraband worth N1.72 billion from smugglers in the past month. The seized items include:
- 3,832 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to 7 truckloads)
- 27 units of used vehicles (also known as Tokunbo vehicles)
- 494 jerry cans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) (equivalent to 14,820 litres)
- 27 bales of used clothing
- 95 bags of charcoal
- 3,643kg of Cannabis Sativa
- 6 suspects arrested in connection with the seized goods
According to Compt. Oladeji, the unit remains committed to enforcing the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, ensuring strict compliance with import and export regulations to prevent revenue losses.
“FOU ‘A’ has intensified border surveillance across the South-Western states. This is part of our ongoing efforts against economic saboteurs. Our operations, codenamed ‘Swift Sting Operations’, along with other patrol teams, have contributed significantly to revenue generation, smuggling suppression, and trade facilitation.”
He added that during the review period, the unit recorded 82 successful interceptions, with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N1.72 billion.
Commitment to Smuggling Suppression and Trade Facilitation
Oladeji reiterated that the success of these anti-smuggling operations was not achieved easily, as officers worked tirelessly, patrolling and surveilling borders to intercept illegal activities.
“We remain resolute in combating illegal trans-border trade and related crimes. Our commitment to enforcing compliance with government fiscal policies is unwavering. We will continue to engage, sensitize, and educate the public on the social and economic implications of smuggling.”
He further emphasized that Customs CG Adewale Adeniyi has introduced several trade facilitation tools to boost revenue collection and economic growth. These include:
- Time Release Study (TRS)
- Advance Ruling System
- Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program
These initiatives have improved investor confidence and enhanced the efficiency of Customs operations.
“FOU ‘A’ has aligned with these reforms by streamlining patrol teams within Lagos, reducing trade impediments, and fostering a business-friendly environment,” Oladeji stated.
The Nigeria Customs Service continues to strengthen enforcement mechanisms to curb smuggling, protect the economy, and facilitate legitimate trade.
