Ogun 1 Command Customs Takes Bold Steps Against Smuggling, Hands Over Seized Illicit Drugs

Ogun 1 Command Customs Takes Bold Steps Against Smuggling, Hands Over Seized Illicit Drugs
…….with DPV of # 279.5 million
……..generates ₦9.69 million revenue from baggage assessments,others

By Frank Odinukaeze

In a historic media briefing held in Abeokuta on Thursday, March 6, 2025, Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, the Customs Area Controller of Ogun 1 Command, provided an update on the Command’s activities for February 2025. The event was marked by the symbolic handover of seized illicit drugs to the Ogun State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

During the briefing, Comptroller Shuaibu emphasized the importance of collaboration with stakeholders to enhance compliance with trade laws and combat smuggling. He lauded the strong partnerships between Customs, traditional institutions, and other critical stakeholders, stating that the benefits include improved communication, economic growth, and strengthened national security.

The Customs Area Controller also highlighted the Command’s intensified anti-smuggling operations, which have led to significant seizures over the past two weeks. The items intercepted include:

– 2,145 bags of smuggled foreign rice
– 612 bales of second-hand clothing
– 843 pieces of used tires
– 6,625 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), which have been auctioned
– 3,365 parcels and 75 sacks of cannabis sativa, totaling 3,103.3 kilograms
– 88 cartons of codeine cough syrup

The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seizures was reported to be over ₦279.5 million.

In addition, the Command announced revenue generation of ₦9.69 million from baggage assessments and the auction of seized PMS. A recent stakeholders’ meeting involving officials from Nigeria and the Benin Republic further underscored efforts to enhance cross-border trade and security at the Idiroko border corridor.

The highlight of the event was the handover of the seized illicit drugs, including cannabis sativa and codeine, to the NDLEA for proper disposal and investigation. Comptroller Shuaibu reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to eradicating illegal drug distribution, emphasizing the health and safety risks posed by narcotics.

Comptroller Shuaibu credited the success of the Command’s operations to the Customs Service Act of 2024, which grants officers extensive powers to patrol, seize, and detain smuggled goods. He assured the public of the Command’s resolve to remain vigilant and innovative in its efforts to protect national security and foster economic stability.

In closing, the Customs Area Controller expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, and the media, traditional leaders, security agencies, and local communities for their unwavering support in the fight against smuggling.

The Ogun 1 Command’s achievements reflect its dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and promoting national interests.