Kwara: Customs seizes N1.2bn worth of smuggled goods in one month
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
The Kwara Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded major anti-smuggling breakthroughs, intercepting prohibited and improperly imported goods valued at over N1.2 billion, barely a month after the assumption of office of the Acting Area Controller, DC Najeem Akanmu Ogundeyi.
Ogundeyi disclosed this on Tuesday during a press briefing in Ilorin, where he showcased the seizures made across different parts of the state through intelligence-led operations and sustained patrols.
According to him, the seizures reflect the command’s renewed commitment to enforcing the Customs Act 2023, suppressing smuggling and protecting Nigeria’s economy.
“Upon assumption of duty, I made it clear that this command would operate strictly in line with the Customs Act 2023, guided by professionalism, intelligence-driven operations and zero tolerance for compromise. I am pleased to report that these directives have already begun to yield positive results,” he said.
Among the seized items were 389 bales of second-hand clothing and 108 sacks of used bags, intercepted around the Ogbomosho–Eyankorin Expressway at about 4:34am. The command also intercepted 6,500 litres of Premium Motor Spirit at various patrol bases along the Bukuro border axis.
Ogundeyi further revealed that 450 bags of foreign parboiled rice, each weighing 50kg, were seized at different patrol points along the Okuta border axis. In addition, three vehicles were intercepted, including a 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser VX and a 2025 Lexus LX 600, both seized around the Bode Saadu area of the state, as well as a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350, 2016 model, intercepted along the Okuta axis. The vehicles, he said, are currently under detention for further investigation.
The command also seized 170 pieces of used tyres along the Lagos–Jebba Expressway.He stated that the total Duty Paid Value of the seizures stands at N1,219,209,369, warning that the command would not tolerate smuggling or economic sabotage.
“These seizures clearly demonstrate that smuggling activities will not be tolerated under my watch, and anyone involved in such illegal acts will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” Ogundeyi warned.
