JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has announced a revenue collection of 259.28 million naira for the second quarter of 2026, which represents an increase of 238% over the 76.81 million naira generated in the same period in 2025.
Addressing journalists in Idiroko on Wednesday, the Acting Controller of the Customs Area, Oladapo Afeni, attributed the sharp increase to the strict enforcement of import and export regulations and improved compliance by stakeholders.
Afeni revealed that the revenue, generated between April 1 and June 23, 2026, came from baggage valuations, auction of perishable items, Premium Motor Spirit and other expenses.
He noted that the command’s counter-smuggling operations also produced significant results, with a total of 146 seizures recorded in the period under review.
The seizures, with a total customs-cleared value of N4.63 billion, included 2,807 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 9,482 parcels of cannabis sativa, 62 bags of raw marijuana, 16,525 liters of PMS, 7,642 pairs of footwear and 2,427 contraband tyres.
Others were 63 bags of foreign sugar, 73 bales of second-hand clothing, 62 bags of imported flour, 32 cartons of frozen products, 100 sachets of tramadol and a used vehicle.
Highlighting key operations, Afeni said operatives intercepted a truck carrying 2,427 contraband tires along the Ijebu-Ode axis on June 3, disguised with a “for sale” inscription to evade detection.
He added that another truck carrying 113 bags of foreign rice hidden under concrete was intercepted along the Itori-Wasimi-Abeokuta road on June 16 after the driver attempted to flee and collide with patrolling officers.
“The suspect is currently in custody and will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation,” he said.
Afeni further disclosed that operatives intercepted another truck loaded with 630 bags of foreign rice along Afamin-Igbogila axis on June 14.
He warned that the influx of contraband goods undermines local industries and contributes to higher unemployment.
On export performance, the comptroller said the command recorded 20,972 tonnes of exports worth 1.05 billion naira during the period, a significant jump from the zero export activity recorded in the corresponding period of 2025.
It listed major export products including white talc, crushed thermal coal and compressed natural gas.
Afeni also disclosed that in collaboration with other security agencies and Beninese counterparts, the command carried out joint border patrols targeting criminal hideouts along the Idiroko-Igolo corridor in Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State.
As part of the interagency collaboration, the command turned over 6,981 packages of cannabis indica and 62 bags of marijuana to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for further investigation.
Likewise, illicit pharmaceutical products, including 77 packs of Analgin and Tramadol injections, were transferred to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control.
Afeni reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustain stakeholder engagement and maintain synergy with security agencies to curb smuggling and safeguard the nation’s economy.
He also commended the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his leadership and support, as well as officers of the command for their professionalism.
The comptroller urged stakeholders in the trade value chain to comply with existing regulations, warning that the command will remain uncompromising in enforcing tax policies and border security.
‘
‘Want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need advertising for a product, service or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Please donate any amount HERE
