Western Marine Command Ramps Up Anti-Smuggling Fight, Hails Security Collaborations


In a major boost to the fight against smuggling in Nigeria’s waterways, the Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has applauded the unwavering support of several key security agencies. The Command also vowed to intensify its efforts in securing the nation’s maritime borders.

Speaking on recent operations, Comptroller PN Ntadi,Controller of the Command, praised the Nigerian Navy, the NDLEA, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and the Marine Police for their collaborative efforts in tackling smuggling activities across the western maritime corridor.



According to.Compt Ntadi, the Command recorded significant seizures in recent weeks, which include: 2,017 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 481 loaves of Cannabis Sativa,72 rolls of foreign textiles, 7 bags of sugar (50kg each) and 9 locally constructed boats.

The total estimated Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the confiscated items stands at ₦352.95 million, underscoring the scale of the smuggling operations being thwarted.

“These achievements are not just numbers,” Ntadi stated. “They represent the result of strategic planning, real-time intelligence, and unwavering teamwork across multiple agencies.”

The Controller  emphasized its resolve to adapt to evolving threats along Nigeria’s waterways. He also reaffirmed that efforts to patrol and protect the nation’s maritime borders will only intensify moving forward.

“We are committed to enforcing the law and safeguarding our maritime domain. There will be no retreat in the face of maritime crime,” the Compt said.

Behind the Command’s success, Ntadi acknowledged several critical factors: Strong leadership support from the Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Adewale Bashir Adeniyi, whose motivation and provision of operational resources have been significant.

Increased use of intelligence-led operations, advanced surveillance tools, and proactive patrols. Reinforced inter-agency synergy, with sister agencies providing key support at every stage.The deployment of new patrol vessels to better monitor Nigeria’s vast and vulnerable waterways.

As Nigeria continues its battle against smuggling and economic sabotage, the Western Marine Command’s renewed energy and collaboration with other forces show that maritime criminals will have less room to operate.


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