Shuaibu’s Onslaught On Smugglers Nets FOU N1.18b In Contraband

The Nigeria Customs Service has made significant seizures of smuggled goods worth N1.18 billion as a bold statement of its commitment to protecting the nation’s economy and citizens. 

The seizures were made between September 1 and October 7, 2025.

Highlighting this on Tuesday, the Controller of the unit, Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, disclosed that the unit recorded 125 successful interceptions, seizing 5,015 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, equivalent to eight trailer loads, along with other contraband items.

The seized rice consignment is a significant blow to smugglers who seek to undermine the nation’s economy.

 The Customs Service has been working tirelessly to prevent the smuggling of essential commodities, ensuring that legitimate businesses are not disadvantaged.

In addition to the rice, the Customs Service seized 15 used vehicles and 640 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, worth millions of naira.

 According to the Controller, these seizures are a testament to the unit’s dedication to enforcing customs laws and regulations.

He noted that the seizures were made possible through intelligence-driven operations across Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, and Lagos states.

Comptroller Shuaibu hinted that four suspects have been arrested in connection with the seizures and are currently under investigation. They will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for prosecution upon the conclusion of inquiries.

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The unit also recovered ₦39.27 million through demand notices and enforcement actions on undervalued imports. Shuaibu emphasised that this reflects the Service’s commitment to plugging revenue leakages and ensuring compliance with valuation standards.

He described smuggling as not just an economic crime but an act that sabotages national progress, destroys local industries, and threatens national security.

He reassured law-abiding traders that enforcement efforts are targeted solely at those undermining Nigeria’s fiscal policies.

 He praised the dedication of Customs under challenging conditions and credited the Comptroller-General of Customs for strategic leadership and support.

Shuaibu called on Nigerians to support the Service’s mission, viewing enforcement as a patriotic duty to safeguard the nation’s future. 

He reiterated that the crackdown is part of a broader national strategy to promote industrial growth and encourage patronage of locally made goods.