Key points
• Nigeria Customs Service warns smugglers operating in Ogun State to abandon illegal trade activities.
• Customs says operatives have been strategically deployed to dismantle smuggling networks and supply chains.
• Command reiterates commitment to protecting Nigeria’s economy and national security.
Main story
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, Idiroko, has declared its determination to put an end to smuggling activities in Ogun State, warning that individuals involved in the illicit trade would be driven out of business.
Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Idiroko, the Area Comptroller of the command, Mr Olukayode Afeni, said the service had intensified efforts to combat economic sabotage through enhanced surveillance and collaboration with other security agencies.
Afeni stated that the command remains committed to dismantling the supply chains and illegal routes used to bring prohibited goods into the country.
According to him, Customs operatives have been strategically positioned across critical locations to intercept contraband and frustrate the activities of smugglers.
The comptroller stressed that the command would continue to enforce the law and ensure that those engaged in illegal importation and other forms of smuggling face the full consequences of their actions.
The issues
Smuggling remains a major challenge to Nigeria’s economy, resulting in significant revenue losses, unfair competition for legitimate businesses and threats to national security. Border communities, particularly along the Ogun axis, have historically been identified as vulnerable routes for the movement of prohibited and duty-evading goods.
The Nigeria Customs Service has intensified anti-smuggling operations in recent years as part of efforts to protect local industries, enhance revenue generation and strengthen border security.
What’s being said
Afeni warned those involved in the smuggling of prohibited goods to desist from the practice, noting that Customs had strengthened its operational capacity to tackle the menace.
“The command wishes to send a stern warning to those involved in the smuggling of prohibited items because our operatives are strategically deployed against smuggling activities.
“We therefore urge traders to desist from illicit trade and engage in legitimate businesses,” he said.
He further emphasised that the command would not tolerate any activity capable of undermining the nation’s economy or compromising its security.
What’s next
The Ogun I Area Command is expected to sustain joint operations with sister security agencies, increase border surveillance and intensify intelligence-driven enforcement actions aimed at disrupting smuggling networks.
Stakeholders, including traders and border communities, are also expected to play a greater role by supporting lawful trade practices and reporting suspicious activities.
Bottom line
The Nigeria Customs Service has reinforced its zero-tolerance stance against smuggling in Ogun State, signalling tougher enforcement measures against economic saboteurs while encouraging traders to embrace legitimate business activities that contribute to national growth and security.
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