The Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), headquartered in Ikeja, Lagos, has announced the interception of contraband goods valued at ₦1.5 billion.
The seizures occurred between April 23 and May 16, 2025, under the leadership of the newly appointed Customs Area Controller, Muhammed Shuaibu.
During a press briefing on May 16, Shuaibu disclosed that the operation led to the arrest of four suspects. He emphasised that the unit has adopted an intelligence-driven approach, moving away from traditional stop-and-search methods to more targeted interventions. This strategy aims to enhance efficiency and reduce unnecessary delays in enforcement activities.
In addition to the seizures, the command generated ₦20.7 million through demand notices and the auctioning of perishable and petroleum products that were irregularly imported. These measures are part of the NCS’s broader efforts to curb smuggling and protect the nation’s economy.
The intercepted contraband included illicit drugs and other prohibited items. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have been involved in handling the seized substances.
NDLEA’s Festac Area Commander, Abdul Maiyaki, commended the Customs Service for its collaboration and for handing over the seized cannabis and a suspect. Similarly, NAFDAC Taskforce Chairman, Shuiba Muhammad, praised the effective inter-agency cooperation, noting that such collaborations are crucial in reducing the circulation of harmful substances and, by extension, insecurity linked to drug abuse.
Shuaibu reaffirmed the unit’s commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and inter-agency collaboration. He stated that the FOU Zone A will continue to adapt its strategies to effectively combat smuggling and other economic crimes, thereby safeguarding the nation’s security and economic interests.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
