The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has seized a range of contraband goods, including rice, premium motor spirit (petrol), cannabis sativa, and other prohibited items, valued at approximately ₦1.88 billion.
This was disclosed on Tuesday by Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu during a press briefing at the Unit’s headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos, where he highlighted the recent operational successes and achievements of the command.
According to Shuaibu, the Unit has significantly stepped up its anti-smuggling drive through intelligence-led strategies designed to curb illicit trade, safeguard government revenue, and protect consumers from harmful and counterfeit products. These efforts resulted in 125 successful interceptions within a six-week period.
The seizures included used vehicles, sacks of second-hand shoes and clothing, bottles of codeine, foreign-branded pharmaceuticals, packets of tramadol, used tyres, and cartons of calcium lactate, all of which were impounded for false declaration.
Operations leading to these seizures were conducted across Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, and Lagos States. Four suspects were apprehended in connection with the illicit activities and are to be handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and prosecution.
Shuaibu further stated that the confiscated cannabis sativa and pharmaceutical products would be transferred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), respectively, for appropriate handling.
He reminded the public that the 2016 Federal Government fiscal policy prohibiting the importation of foreign parboiled rice through land borders remains in full effect.
He warned that individuals who persist in violating this restriction would continue to face the full weight of the law, as the Customs Service is determined to frustrate all smuggling attempts.
“The series of interceptions reaffirm the operational efficiency of the Unit and underscore our unwavering commitment to confronting economic saboteurs who threaten national security and undermine government policies,” Shuaibu said.
He disclosed that between 1 September and 7 October 2025, the Unit recovered approximately ₦39.3 million through demand notices and enforcement actions against undervaluations.
The Comptroller reiterated that while the NCS remains committed to facilitating legitimate trade and supporting lawful businesses, it will sustain its robust enforcement measures to protect the national economy.
He emphasised that the Federal Operations Unit Zone A will continue to deploy intelligence-driven operations and advanced surveillance technologies to secure Nigeria’s borders, protect national revenue, and promote economic growth.