The Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun 1 Area Command, has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to combatting smuggling activities with a significant seizure of contraband goods valued at N398 million in October.
During this period, the command also achieved a remarkable revenue generation of N30 million through baggage assessment and auction sales of seized petroleum products, representing a substantial increase of over 400% compared to the corresponding period last year, which saw revenue at N5,487,076.
Deputy Comptroller Amadu Shuaibu, the Acting Customs Area Controller for Ogun Area 1 Command, revealed these accomplishments during a press briefing held at the Idiroko area of the state.
The seized goods comprised 901 parcels of Cannabis Sativa (Marijuana or Indian hemp), 500 pieces of foreign-used pneumatic tires (commonly known as Tokunbo tires), 23 units of vehicles used to convey prohibited goods, five foreign-used vehicles (Tokunbo), and 4,684 bags of foreign parboiled rice weighing 50kg each, equivalent to eight trailer loads.
Shuaibu highlighted the command’s commitment to trade facilitation and robust engagement with stakeholders, attributing the success to the enabling working atmosphere created by the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and his management team.
The recent addition of eight Toyota Land Cruiser trucks, provided by the CGC to enhance anti-smuggling operations, has further bolstered the command’s efforts.
The Deputy Comptroller emphasized the persistent seizure of Cannabis Sativa, foreign-used pneumatic tires, and other dangerous goods as a testament to the command’s unwavering dedication to preventing the youth from harmful substances.
These achievements, he said, underscore the Nigeria Customs’ commitment to contributing to the economic development and national security of the nation.