By Onoja Baba, Nigeria
The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its anti-smuggling operations, recording seizures of Codeine, Tramadol, Cannabis Sativa, and other prohibited goods valued at over ₦1.18 billion within six weeks.
Addressing journalists at the Unit’s headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos, Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, who heads the unit, said the enhanced operations were part of renewed efforts to safeguard national security, ensure trade integrity, and protect the economy from saboteurs.
“The unit has intensified its anti-smuggling operations through intelligence-driven strategies aimed at curbing illicit trade, safeguarding revenue, and protecting consumers from hazardous and counterfeit products,” Shuaibu stated.
According to him, between September and early October 2025, the unit intercepted 125 consignments of prohibited items across the southwestern states, including 640 parcels of Cannabis Sativa (approximately 431.8kg), 460 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (about 11,500 litres), 5,015 bags of 50kg foreign rice, 15 used vehicles, 143 bales of used clothing, 2 jumbo sacks of used shoes, and 1 sack of used clothing.
Other seizures included 390 bottles of Codeine, 310 foreign-branded drugs, 19 cards of Tramadol, 210 used tyres, and a 20-foot container (ONEU 2419369 FTC) loaded with 752 cartons of Calcium Lactate, which was intercepted for false declaration.
The Comptroller revealed that the seizures were made across Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, and Lagos States, leading to the arrest of four suspects currently under investigation.
“These seizures reaffirm the operational capability of the unit and underscore our resolve to continuously confront economic saboteurs who threaten national security and undermine government policies,” he said.
Shuaibu also reminded the public that the federal government’s 2016 fiscal policy banning the importation of foreign parboiled rice through land borders remains in force. He warned that those defying the restriction would face the full wrath of the law.
“Our men will continue to inflict heavy losses on unpatriotic individuals who attempt to sabotage the economy through smuggling,” he warned.
In addition to the seizures, the FOU Zone ‘A’ recovered ₦39.27 million through the issuance of Demand Notices and enforcement actions against importers found guilty of under-declaration and under-valuation between September 1 and October 7, 2025.
Demonstrating inter-agency cooperation, Comptroller Shuaibu handed over the seized drugs, Cannabis Sativa, and suspects to officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for further investigation and prosecution.
Receiving the items, Deputy Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA, Nasir Garba, commended the Customs Service for its proactive efforts, noting that such collaborations strengthen Nigeria’s collective fight against drug trafficking and related crimes.
“We appreciate the vigilance and professionalism of the Nigeria Customs Service. Their consistent effort in intercepting illicit drugs has helped reduce the inflow of dangerous substances into our communities,” Garba said.
Comptroller Shuaibu reaffirmed the NCS’s commitment to national security and economic protection, stressing that the Service will continue to enhance intelligence, coordination, and stakeholder collaboration to dismantle smuggling networks across the region.
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