Delivers seized property valued at ₦10 billion to Agencies

After intercepting 16 containers full of prohibited goods worth over ₦10 billion, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reiterated its zero tolerance policy for unauthorized and subpar imports.

This was revealed by Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), on Monday, August 11, 2025, at a press conference held at Apapa Area Command in Lagos.

The event was attended by representatives of important law enforcement organizations, such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW).

The CGC explained that the seizures were the result of ongoing intelligence-led operations to protect the country from harmful imports and enforce existing trade laws.

“We have seized 16 containers today containing prohibited drugs, expired medication, expired food, and other items that violate our import prohibition guidelines, such as arms and ammunition. These smuggled items have a negative impact on the health and well-being of unsuspecting Nigerians who would consume them, as well as causing national insecurity.”

He noted that among the intercepted items was a container that initially passed inspection but, after a second search prompted by intelligence, was discovered to contain 202 cans of Colorado Loud, a Canadian hard drug weighing 101kg. Additional scanning revealed concealed firearms and ammunition, including two pump-action rifles, 25 ammunition cartridges, one pistol with 55 rounds, and associated accessories.

The consignment was traced back to Babatunde Ogidiolu, a Lagos resident. Other confiscations included seven containers of expired drugs and prohibited medicaments, three containers of expired food items, particularly margarine, and three containers of absolutely prohibited used clothing.

The CGC emphasized that the NCS would continue to collaborate with sister agencies to ensure that harmful, substandard, and counterfeit products did not enter Nigerian markets.

“Our commitment to protecting Nigeria’s economy and the well-being of its citizens and residents remains unwavering. He warned that the NCS, with the support of our strategic partners, will continue to provide uncompromising enforcement backed by intelligence to detect and seize prohibited items.

Representatives from sister agencies praised the Service for its alertness. CP Alamutu Abiodun (Rtd), Director of the South-West Zone for NCCSALW, stated that the seizure of arms and ammunition significantly aids in reducing the country’s small arms proliferation.

“I wish Nigeria Customs continued success because their achievements benefit us. They have contributed to the resolution of half of the issues we face as a group,” he stated.