When Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, redeployed Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu as the Area Controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone B, Kaduna, on April 17, 2024, it was part of a strategic initiative to enhance trade facilitation, increase revenue, and curb smuggling activities in the region. Since then, Comptroller Shuaibu’s leadership has made an immediate and significant impact, transforming the operational landscape of the unit.
Under his command, the FOU Zone B has become a formidable force against economic saboteurs in Northern Nigeria. Comptroller Shuaibu, now regarded as a “smugglers’ nightmare,” has led his team in executing a series of successful operations that have dealt heavy blows to the illicit trade networks in the region. His proactive and innovative strategies have not only disrupted these illegal activities but have also begun to reshape the region’s narrative, moving away from its notorious association with smuggling.
In just four months, Comptroller Shuaibu has overseen the interception of contraband goods worth over ₦3.1 billion. These seizures include 750 sacks of donkey bones and meat, 58,740 sachets of tramadol, 48,000 ampules of Analgin injection, and a variety of other prohibited items. The breakdown of the seizures is impressive: 12 vehicles used as means of conveyance, 174 bags of foreign rice (50 kg each), 234 jerry cans of PMS (25 litres each), 109 bales of second-hand clothing, and much more.
Among the high-profile seizures under his watch were consignments of pangolin scales, a protected species under international law, and other goods intended for the black market. These operations have not only protected the Nigerian economy but have also upheld global conservation efforts.
Comptroller Shuaibu’s approach has been characterized by strategic intelligence, increased patrols, and the deployment of competent officers across the unit’s operational areas. His efforts are in alignment with the CGC Adeniyi’s mission of consolidation, collaboration, and innovation within the Nigeria Customs Service. As a result, the FOU Zone B now records seizures on a weekly basis, a testament to the unit’s increased efficiency and vigilance.
Reflecting on his successes, Comptroller Shuaibu emphasized the importance of compliance as a legal obligation and a strategic choice that ensures the smooth and efficient flow of goods across Nigeria’s borders. He has consistently urged smugglers to abandon their illegal activities in favor of lawful trade, highlighting the detrimental effects of smuggling on the Nigerian economy.
“Smuggling has really affected the economy of Nigeria in several ways,” he stated. “It hinders the local industry, discourages legal imports, and reduces the volume of revenues collected from duties and levies. This unit will continue to enforce the Federal Government’s policies in line with international best practices, regardless of any campaigns of calumny against the service.”
Comptroller Shuaibu’s track record has not only brought economic saboteurs to their knees but has also reinforced the Federal Operations Unit’s role as a key player in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests. His continued efforts are expected to yield even greater results as he remains committed to the fight against smuggling in the region.
Source: Transitnewsng