By Adejoke Adeleye
The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded seizures with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N2.469 billion as part of its intensified efforts to curb smuggling and other forms of cross-border economic sabotage.
The Command disclosed that the seized items included 8,675 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) concealed in kegs, 24 bales of second-hand clothing, four sacks of used shoes and 500 litres of diesel.
A major highlight of the seizures was a 2026 Range Rover Sport Autobiography P530, with a declared value of N417,011,982, according to the Command.
The Customs Command also announced the handover of 3,893 parcels of cannabis sativa to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Idiroko Special Command, for further investigation and necessary action.
According to the Command, the seizures demonstrate its commitment to enforcing Nigeria’s customs laws and preventing the movement of uncustomed goods and illicit commodities through the country’s borders.
The Command said its enforcement operations had been strengthened through sustained inter-agency collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Service, NDLEA and environmental management agencies.
It added that high-level joint engagements and security meetings had been held over the past ten months to harmonise operations along the Ogun border corridors and tackle cross-border crimes.
The Command also said it had maintained dialogue with traditional rulers, youth leaders and border community associations in a bid to build mutual trust and minimise hostility during enforcement operations.
Beyond enforcement, the Command said it had undertaken initiatives aimed at supporting host communities and promoting environmental stewardship as part of its corporate social responsibility activities.
It further disclosed that the Ogun I Area Command emerged as champion in volleyball during the Inter-Command Athletic Competitions held in August and September 2026.
The Command attributed its achievements to the dedication of its officers and men, as well as the support of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and the management team.
It assured Nigerians that the Command would remain resolute in protecting the country’s economic interests and national security.
The Command warned perpetrators of economic sabotage and illegal border activities that, “Ogun I Command will continue to be a hostile zone for uncustomed goods and illicit trade.”
