Customs seize ₦2.5bn contraband in Kwara, reaffirms pledge to end illegal trade
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
The Nigeria Customs Service, Kwara Area Command, has intensified its fight against smuggling by seizing goods worth over ₦478 million in coordinated operations across the state.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Najeem Ogundeyi, emphasized that the command will no longer tolerate illegal trade activities, adding that it has so far seized a total of 1,588 illegal goods.
As disclosed, these goods include 1,107 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 317 jerrycans of suspected smuggled petrol, 44 bags of imported sugar, 120 sacks of illegally mined lithium ore, nine vehicles loaded with rice, and a variety of second-hand vehicles and clothing.
He further disclosed that the Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the confiscated items underscores the scale of attempted economic sabotage against the nation.
On revenue generation, Ogundeyi reported that the Kwara Area Command collected over ₦2.5 billion during the period under review, primarily through excise activities, demonstrating the Command’s sustained contribution to government fiscal objectives.
He further highlighted that the command’s operations are designed not only to clamp down on smuggling but also to promote legitimate trade, noting that the Federal Government’s ban on foreign parboiled rice is intended to empower local farmers, create jobs, and strengthen food security.
The Acting Controller equally praised the collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and other security and regulatory agencies and acknowledged the support of the Controller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his guidance and support.
He concluded by calling on the public to support the fight against smuggling, stressing that all citizens must embrace legitimate trade and desist from unlawful economic activities.
