The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has announced the seizure of contraband goods valued at over ₦1.4 billion within a six-week period, including a Rolls-Royce vehicle, thousands of bags of foreign parboiled rice, and large quantities of cannabis.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Idiroko Command headquarters on Thursday, August 21, 2025, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Godwin Otunla, disclosed that the seizures were achieved through intelligence-driven operations and the dedication of officers in combating smuggling along the border corridors.
“Barely six weeks ago, I pledged that the Command would not relent in fighting smuggling or bow to the antics of economic saboteurs. Today, I am glad to report remarkable achievements within this short period,” Otunla said.
According to him, the items intercepted include 4,424 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to over seven truckloads), 50 sacks and 1,936 parcels of cannabis sativa, 105 used pneumatic tyres, 21 bales and three sacks of used clothing, three foreign-used vehicles, including a Rolls-Royce worth billions of naira, and 6,400 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized items stands at ₦1,401,531,923.95, representing a major economic blow to smugglers.
Otunla also highlighted the Command’s revenue performance, noting that ₦45,054,191.00 was generated in July 2025, an increase of 27.47% compared to ₦35,327,852.00 in July 2024. He attributed this growth to improved compliance measures, enhanced border monitoring, and robust stakeholder engagement.
As part of inter-agency collaboration, the seized illicit drugs were handed over to the Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Idiroko Special Command for further investigation and prosecution.
“The synergy with NDLEA reinforces our determination to safeguard public health and protect our youths from the devastating effects of hard drugs,” Otunla added.
The Customs boss commended his officers, sister security agencies, and members of the border communities for their support while warning smugglers and their collaborators to desist from illegal activities.
“No matter the sophistication of your tricks, our officers will continue to thwart your antics, and we shall bring the full weight of the law against you,” he declared.
He assured that Ogun I Command will remain vigilant and committed to the policy thrust of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, focusing on consolidation, collaboration, and innovation.