In a bold move to tighten Nigeria’s border security and boost national revenue, the Kebbi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully seized ₦84.2 million worth of smuggled goods in just six weeks. The goods, which include Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), foreign rice, second-hand clothing, and other restricted items, were intercepted as part of intensified anti-smuggling operations aimed at protecting the country’s economy and security.
At a press briefing held on Thursday, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Chidi Nwokorie, highlighted the Command’s unwavering commitment to curbing smuggling activities and facilitating legitimate trade. Despite the challenges posed by economic difficulties and border closures, the Command recorded an impressive ₦13,378,002 in revenue during his brief tenure.
In his statement, Nwokorie revealed that the major contraband seizures included 13,750 liters of Premium Motor Spirit, 145 bales of second-hand clothing, 114 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each), 70 cartons of expired Biggy Vanilla Wafer Biscuits, and 40 bags of foreign sugar (50kg each). These goods were successfully intercepted thanks to improved intelligence sharing and cooperation with other security agencies, such as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), NAFDAC, Police, DSS, NIS, Nigerian Army, and the National Security Adviser (NSA).
Nwokorie stressed the importance of collaboration with border communities, traders, and relevant sister agencies to facilitate the smooth flow of legitimate trade while maintaining vigilance against illicit activities. He also encouraged stakeholders to leverage the trade facilitation initiatives introduced by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, aimed at making trade processes more efficient and secure.
Reaffirming his dedication to national security and economic stability, Nwokorie vowed, “This is my mission and my bond. I will not fail the Service. I will not fail the nation.” The Customs Command is determined to continue its crackdown on smuggling, ensuring that Nigeria’s borders remain secure and its economy protected from illegal activities.
With this ongoing effort, the Nigeria Customs Service is reinforcing its role as a critical player in safeguarding the nation’s future, improving revenue generation, and upholding the rule of law at the borders.
