Customs Strike Big: N1.5 Billion Worth of Contraband Seized in 14 Days in Lagos

In a sweeping clampdown that underscores Nigeria Customs Service’s renewed commitment to combating smuggling, the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, has announced the interception of 46 smuggled consignments valued at an astonishing N1.5 billion within just two weeks of operations. The announcement came from Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu during a media briefing held in Ikeja, where he detailed the recent activities of the unit and sent a strong message to economic saboteurs across the region.

The seizures, which represent one of the most significant hauls in recent months, were achieved through a combination of meticulous intelligence gathering, strategic surveillance, and rapid operational execution by the men and officers of the FOU Zone A. This flurry of activity not only highlights the agility of the customs service under Shuaibu’s leadership but also reflects a broader trend of heightened enforcement following renewed government directives to tackle revenue leakages and illegal trade routes.

Addressing journalists, Comptroller Shuaibu appeared visibly energized by the operation’s success, reiterating the agency’s unflinching resolve to secure the nation’s economic borders. He noted that the intercepted contraband included a wide range of prohibited items such as foreign parboiled rice, second-hand clothing, poultry products, and illicit drugs — all of which pose varying degrees of threat to Nigeria’s economy, public health, and national security.

According to him, these interceptions were made possible through the diligent efforts of the unit’s operatives stationed across key flashpoints within Lagos and neighboring areas. “We are leaving no stone unturned,” he stated emphatically, “because we understand the economic sabotage that these smuggled items represent. Smuggling not only kills local industries but also robs the government of vital revenue needed for national development.”

Shuaibu emphasized that the battle against smuggling is far from over, warning that those involved in the illicit trade should reconsider their ways before the long arm of the law catches up with them. He added that some of the seizures were made in “desperate and dangerous” circumstances, indicating that smugglers are becoming increasingly daring, and often resort to violence or high-risk concealment methods in an effort to evade detection.

The comptroller commended his officers for their professionalism and bravery, particularly in situations where the smugglers attempted to overpower operatives or escape using unconventional routes. He also praised the collaborative efforts of sister security agencies and local informants who have aided the Customs in identifying smuggling hotspots and transit points.

In terms of specific items, Shuaibu declined to list every detail but hinted at a variety of goods that range from food items to luxury cars, all of which were brought into the country in violation of existing import regulations. “Some of the seizures were concealed in ways that would make even seasoned officers second-guess,” he said, referring to vehicles modified with false compartments and trucks laden with seemingly legitimate cargo masking the true contents underneath.

When questioned about the fate of the seized goods, Shuaibu explained that the contraband would be processed according to the legal framework guiding customs operations. This includes forfeiture, destruction, or auction, depending on the nature of the items and existing court rulings. He reiterated that due process would be followed, and all actions would be taken in line with federal government policies aimed at preserving national interests.

The N1.5 billion valuation of the seized goods reflects both their quantity and market value, which many experts say is just a fraction of the actual volume of smuggling that occurs across Nigeria’s porous borders daily. Nonetheless, Shuaibu argued that every interception counts, not only in financial terms but also in the deterrent effect it has on would-be smugglers.

He also used the opportunity to call for greater public support and cooperation. “We cannot fight this battle alone,” he said. “We need Nigerians to understand that when they patronize smuggled goods, they are directly contributing to economic sabotage. We must all join hands to say no to smuggling and yes to made-in-Nigeria goods.”

The FOU Zone A, which covers Lagos and several surrounding states, is one of the most strategically important operational zones for the Nigeria Customs Service. It serves as the frontline for monitoring goods entering the nation through seaports, airports, and various land borders. Over the years, this unit has recorded several high-profile seizures, but this recent bust adds to its growing reputation as a formidable force in the war against smuggling.

Economic analysts have hailed the development as a welcome sign of proactive governance. They argue that Nigeria loses billions of naira annually to smuggling, and only a vigilant and empowered customs service can stem the tide. They also stress the importance of upgrading border infrastructure and adopting cutting-edge technology like drones, smart surveillance, and blockchain-based tracking systems to further strengthen enforcement.

Meanwhile, the Customs Comptroller also hinted at ongoing investigations into the smuggling networks behind the seized items. While he remained tight-lipped on specific arrests or court proceedings, he assured journalists that some suspects had already been apprehended and would be charged to court once investigations are concluded. “Smuggling is a crime that often involves well-organized syndicates. We are not just after the foot soldiers; we are going after the entire chain,” he said.

As the briefing drew to a close, Shuaibu reiterated the unit’s commitment to staying ahead of smugglers through training, vigilance, and community engagement. He urged stakeholders in the import-export value chain to abide by laid-down procedures and work hand-in-hand with Customs to promote a transparent and law-abiding trading environment.

In a country grappling with economic challenges, the news of this massive seizure serves as both a warning to criminal elements and a morale booster to law-abiding citizens and businesses. For now, the message from Ikeja is loud and clear: the war against smuggling is on, and the Nigeria Customs Service is not backing down.