Smuggling on notice: Nigeria Customs seizes N1.5 Billion worth of contraband

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The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, has intercepted seven 20-ft containers of contraband worth N1.5 billion between April 23, 2025, and May 17, 2025. The Customs Area Controller, Mohammed Shuaibu, announced this while showcasing some of the seized contraband to journalists.

According to Shuaibu, the contraband was seized within the Lagos State metropolis. He added that the command collected a total sum of N20.7 million through demand notices and auction sales of seized perishable goods. “We have diligently optimised these revenue streams to ensure accurate recovery of funds,” he said.

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Shuaibu explained that the seized containers included used tires and vehicles, foreign parboiled rice, new shoes, new clothes, and new bags. He stated, “Our team acted on credible intelligence, successfully intercepted and seized seven 20-ft containers filled with various illicit items within the Lagos Metropolis.”

The Customs boss emphasised that the unit has bolstered its strategies to secure Nigeria’s Southwestern States borders against economic saboteurs. He noted that notable seizures include 4,085 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 15 illegally imported foreign-used vehicles, 82 packs of tramadol, and 246kg of cannabis sativa

Shuaibu reiterated that the service remains resolute in its efforts to combat smuggling and illicit trade. He said, “We will continue to collaborate with sister security agencies and border communities to dismantle the networks engaged in illicit activities.”

The customs boss urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to smuggling or illicit trade. He also urged declarants to remain honest in their declarations to avoid unnecessary bottlenecks.

Shuaibu announced that the seized cannabis sativa would be handed over to the National Drug Law and Enforcement Agency, while the tramadol capsules would be handed over to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control for further investigation and prosecution.

“We intend to collapse all patrol points within the Lagos metropolis,” Shuaibu said, adding that the unit’s intelligence-driven operations aim to create a more efficient, transparent, and inclusive trading environment

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