Customs Records Major Anti-Smuggling Breakthroughs in South-West473 attempts foiled, ₦5.5bn recovered as FOU Zone ‘A’ intensifies operations

Victoria Silvanus

The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service has recorded significant breakthroughs in its anti-smuggling operations across South-West Nigeria, reaffirming its commitment to protecting the nation’s economy and securing its borders.

Comptroller Gambo Aliyu  disclosed this during a press briefing held on May 5, 2026,he  highlighted the unit’s achievements over an eight-week period, emphasizing a renewed offensive against economic sabotage and illicit trade.

According to the Comptroller, the unit successfully intercepted 473 smuggling attempts through enhanced surveillance, intelligence sharing, and inter-agency collaboration.

“Our resolve remains firm. We will not relent in our efforts to dismantle smuggling networks and safeguard the nation’s economic interests,” Aliyu said.

The seizures included 8,794 bags of foreign rice (equivalent to 15 trailer loads), 22 used vehicles, 328 bales of used clothing, 31,705 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 1,188 kegs of vegetable oil, and 531 cartons of foreign poultry products, alongside other contraband items such as tyres, sugar, and spaghetti.

These operations were carried out across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Ondo states.

In a major anti-narcotics push, the unit launched Operation Hawk, targeting drug trafficking networks. This led to the seizure of 3,340 parcels of cannabis indica, popularly known as “Ghanaian loud,” weighing 1,540kg.

Aliyu noted that traffickers are constantly evolving their methods.

“The trend shows that smugglers are becoming more sophisticated. This is why intelligence-driven operations and inter-agency collaboration are critical to completely dismantle these criminal supply chains,” he said.

In a separate operation along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor, officers intercepted a vehicle carrying hard drugs. The suspect, a 71-year-old Nigerian, was found with 2.3kg of cocaine and 4.1kg of methamphetamine.

The total street value of the drugs was estimated at ₦2.35 billion, and the suspect, along with the seized items, will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further action.

Customs officers also intercepted four cylinders of high-grade mercury concealed in a vehicle. The substance, which poses serious environmental risks and is regulated under international conventions, is commonly used in illegal gold mining.

“This seizure highlights our commitment not only to economic protection but also to environmental safety and public health,” Aliyu added.

The suspect has been granted administrative bail, while the case will be transferred to the appropriate environmental authorities.

Beyond seizures, the unit recorded a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦5.5 billion within the review period, reflecting the scale of enforcement activities targeting duty evasion and under-declaration. Additionally, ₦97.7 million was recovered through demand notices issued on improperly declared consignments.

“This figure underscores the intensity and effectiveness of our operations and our contribution to national revenue,” the Comptroller stated.

Technology Driving Modern Customs Operations

The FOU Zone ‘A’ is increasingly adopting modern technologies to strengthen its operations, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), drone surveillance, satellite imagery, real-time tracking systems, and predictive analytics.

“These tools allow us to proactively identify high-risk areas, monitor smuggling routes in real time, and deploy our resources more efficiently,” Aliyu explained.

The unit also announced plans to relocate to a newly commissioned ultra-modern headquarters in Iperu, Ogun State, which will feature a command and control centre to enhance intelligence coordination and inter-agency collaboration.

Despite intensified enforcement, the Customs Service reiterated its support for legitimate trade.

“We are committed to striking a balance between enforcement and trade facilitation. Lawful businesses will continue to receive our full support without unnecessary hindrance,” Aliyu assured.

He concluded by commending the efforts of Customs officers and the support of stakeholders and the media.

“We remain resolute in sustaining pressure on economic saboteurs and protecting Nigeria’s economic interests,” he said.