The Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone D of the Nigeria Customs Service, has made significant anti-smuggling gains between May 21 and July 16, 2025. The unit seized contraband items with a cumulative Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦78,111,442.50. This achievement underscores the unit's commitment to combating smuggling and protecting Nigeria's economy.
The seizures included a wide range of illicit goods, such as petroleum products, pharmaceutical substances, and military gear. Some of the items intercepted were 13,750 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 725 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), 20,600 sachets of Tramadol Hydrochloride, and several cartons of unregistered food and cosmetic products. The unit also confiscated military and paramilitary uniform materials, which pose a direct threat to national security.
The Comptroller of FOU Zone D, Abubakar Umar, described the seizures as particularly significant given the persistent insecurity and activities of non-state actors in the region. He emphasized that the unit's operations would help to prevent the proliferation of illicit goods and protect the country's economy.
Comptroller Umar reaffirmed the unit's commitment to combating smuggling and protecting Nigeria's economy. He emphasized that the unit would intensify its operations to curb illicit activities further and ensure that those engaged in smuggling are brought to justice.
The unit collaborated with other agencies, including the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), to hand over seized items. This collaboration underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating smuggling and protecting public health.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, recently allocated nine operational vehicles to the unit to boost its enforcement capabilities. This move will likely enhance the unit's effectiveness in tackling illicit activities and protecting the country's economy.
The FOU Zone D's seizure of smuggled goods worth ₦78m is a significant achievement in the fight against smuggling. The unit's commitment to combating smuggling and protecting Nigeria's economy is evident in its operations. The collaboration with other agencies and the allocation of new operational vehicles will likely enhance the unit's effectiveness in tackling illicit activities. The unit's efforts will help to prevent the proliferation of illicit goods, protect the country's economy, and ensure the safety and security of citizens.
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