Tag: Customs

 

The National Coordinator ‘Operation Whirlwind’ Assistant Comptroller General Hussein Ejibunu, showcasing the eight vehicles, means of conveyance of the intercepted petrol.
Petrol

The Nation

Lagos:   The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adeniyi, said Operation Whirlwind intercepted 39,425 litres of petrol worth ₦39.4 million within Lagos-Ogun axis.

Mr Adeniyi disclosed this on Friday at a news conference in Lagos, organised following recent petroleum product seizures by Operation Whirlwind at the Federal Operations Unit, Ikeja.

(The National Coordinator ‘Operation Whirlwind’ Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs Hussein Ejibunu, Zonal Coordinator Zone’A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller Charles Orbih, the representative of the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, Mrs Abidemi Aluko,the representative of the National Security Adviser, Lagos Zonal office, (NMDPRA), and Mr Patrick Musa, during the briefing of operation Whirlwind held in Lagos on Friday)

 

Represented by the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Asst. Comptroller-General Hussein Ejibunu, Adeniyi said it marked another milestone by operatives in the Lagos-Ogun axis.

He attributed the success to officers’ dedication, commitment and resilience over the past year within the zone.

 

Adeniyi said the Office of the National Security Adviser, NMDPRA, and Attorney General’s office all commended Customs’ efforts in intercepting smuggled petroleum products.

 

He said, “On May 23, we were in Yola for a similar exercise where over 46,000 litres of seized PMS were auctioned.

((The National Coordinator ‘Operation Whirlwind’ Assistant Comptroller General Hussein Ejibunu, showcasing the eight vehicles, means of conveyance of the intercepted petrol.
Petrol)

“Today, we are conducting another auction following seizures made at Laro, Imeko, Badagry, Owode, Ajilete, and other flashpoints.”

He added that investigations confirmed the petrol was intended for smuggling into Benin Republic.

 

A total of 1,577 jerrycans of 25 litres each — amounting to 39,425 litres — were seized, along with eight vehicles used for transportation.

 

Adeniyi stated that the seized petrol had a duty paid value of ₦39.4 million, and the vehicles were valued at ₦24 million, totalling ₦63.4 million.

 

He reiterated that there was no safe haven for smugglers, and Customs would continue disrupting illegal activities to the barest minimum.

 

The CGC directed that the seized petrol be auctioned immediately to Nigerians in 25-litre jerrycans at ₦10,000 each.

 

He thanked strategic partners—ONSA, the Attorney General’s office and NMDPRA—for their unwavering support and cooperation.

 

Adeniyi added that the success of Operation Whirlwind was due to strong collaboration with these agencies.

 

“Since Operation Whirlwind began in 2025, Customs officers have not fired a single shot, and four suspects are currently facing trial,” he said.

 

Comptroller Charles Orbih, Zonal Coordinator, Zone ‘A’ of NCS, reaffirmed the service’s commitment to protect Nigeria’s economy and ensure policy benefits reach all citizens.

 

He noted that every litre smuggled across the borders causes revenue loss, scarcity, market instability and weakens energy security.

 

“Operation Whirlwind, launched by the National Security Adviser’s office, proves Nigeria Customs is capable of defending and securing the nation’s borders,” Orbih stated.

 

Comptroller Muhammed Shuaibu, FOU Zone ‘A’, commended Customs Management for the success achieved during Operation Whirlwind.

 

He said the seizure was a joint effort by officers committed to combating smuggling and protecting the nation’s borders.

 

He added that the seizure would help revive the economy, and Customs would maintain its focus on revenue generation and supporting legitimate trade.

 

Mr Patrick Musa, of the NSA’s Lagos Zonal office (NMDPRA), said the operation proved Customs’ competence in border protection.

 

He noted that NMDPRA, mandated with petroleum distribution, would continue collaborating with Customs and other agencies to stop petrol smuggling.

 

Mrs Abidemi Aluko, representing the Attorney General’s office, appreciated the CGC, Customs officers and partner agencies for curbing petrol smuggling.

 

“This is not business as usual. Suspects are currently under investigation for illegal petroleum dealings and will face trial,” she said.

 

Quoting relevant laws, she stated the offence carries a sentence of life imprisonment or a fine, including forfeiture of transport means.

 

“The Federal Government remains committed to prosecuting and bringing to justice those involved in petrol smuggling,” Aluko added.

 

She called on sister agencies and stakeholders to strengthen collaboration to fight economic sabotage.

 

In his closing remarks, ACG Kola Oladeji thanked the CGC for his leadership and enabling environment that contributed to the operation’s success.

 

Oladeji urged officers to stay committed and intensify efforts to enhance national security.

 

Lagos, The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has commended the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for its innovative “B’Odogwu” Unified Customs Management System, a homegrown solution that enhances trade facilitation and revenue generation.

Its Regional Trade Facilitation Committee (RTFC) of ECOWAS lauded the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, for championing the initiative.

The commendation was made during the RTFC’s visit on Tuesday to the Port and Terminal Multi-Service Ltd. (PTML) customs command in Lagos, which served as the pilot location for the B’Odogwu system’s implementation.

 

Mr Kolawole Sofola, ECOWAS Director of Trade, who led the delegation, also praised Adeniyi and the PTML command for the remarkable achievements in trade facilitation and revenue collection since the project’s inception.

 

The ECOWAS director, who led the team to learn about the activities of the command and get deeper insight into recent NCS activities, added that Nigeria was making gains with the deployment of modern innovations.

 

Sofola explained that NCS was doing a great job in enabling economic growth through trade facilitation and suppression of smuggling.

 

He also lauded Controller of PTML, Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, for deploying the technology to achieve greater productivity and increasing revenue collection.

 

“On behalf of the President of the ECOWAS Commission, as well as the Commissioner responsible for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, I congratulate Comptroller Daniyan and his management team for the great work that they are doing.

 

“The comptroller is not only generating revenue but also stopping smuggling activities as well as promoting trade facilitation.

 

“We came here to learn as a regional trade facilitation committee, consisting of all ECOWAS member states and we are very glad to have noted a very good practice in Nigeria. What Nigeria has been doing is evolving with the times.

 

“Nigeria have moved from one system to another until finally moved to this current system called B’Odogwu which is homegrown. The Nigeria Customs is doing well in promoting economic growth across the commands,” he said.

 

In his response, Area Controller of the PTML Command, Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, told the committee that the command collected over N230 billion using the the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS) B’Odogwu, in platform since November 2024 to May 22.

 

Comptroller Daniyan revealed to the committee that B’Odogwu project was initially launched in a pilot phase at PTML command adding that the customs management had rolled out the project in 34 commands across the country due to the success story on B’odogwu.

 

He noted that B’Odogwu platform was unique in the sense that it was a home-grown application which was developed by the NCS officers in conjunction with the Trade Modernisation Project (TMP).

 

The PTML boss said the command now operates a two-hour cargo clearance.

 

He attributed the achievement received so far from B’Odogwu to the level of compliant at the RoRo terminal saying that the clearance time would be reducing as the command keeps improving on its operations.

 

He stated that under the guidance and encouragement of the CGC Adeniyi that there had always been constant sensitisation, training and capacity building, not only for officers, but for all stakeholders such as bankers, terminal operators, and everyone involving in the use of the project.

 

“B’Odogwu replaced the Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II) that was used .As you know, with any new thing, there is a challenge, especially with technology.

 

“We are going to have glitches and issues, but the uniqueness of this platform is that it is a home-grown application.

 

“We give kudos to our CGC because the spirit and the vision in him is what he has given to us by drinking of that fountain of innovation. He is a great innovator and a visionary for these projects,” he added.

 

Also speaking at the meeting, The B’Odogwu Project Manager, Assistant Comptroller Oyindamola Oladepo, while delivering a presentation on the application, gave the history of how the project was initiated.

 

He said that N5.6 billion was realised from the platform in a day.

 

According to him, on average, the command has achieved port clearance in less than six hours.

 

He further explained that B’Odogwu integration aligns with the Comptroller-General’s core agenda: consolidate, collaborate, and innovate customs operations to enhance trade facilitation.

 

 

 

Lagos:  The Ports and Terminal Multiservices Ltd. (PTML) Customs Command has initiated a fresh round of stakeholder engagement to address and resolve operational challenges linked to the newly introduced B’Odogwu platform.

Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, the Customs Area Controller, PTML Command, revealed this during a two-day “second phase of B’odogwu stakeholders re-sensitisation” held at the command on Friday.

(A cross-section of stakeholders and Assistant Comptroller, Abbas Oladepo, while sensitising stakeholders at the Port Ports and Terminal Multi Service Ltd. (PTML Customs Command on Friday)

The B’Odogwu system, an indigenous application developed by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) ICT officers, is the local name for the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS).

Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, officially deployed B’Odogwu at PTML in October 2024. Its name, “B’Odogwu,” is designed to resonate with stakeholders, signifying “borders and Customs operations” across all entry points – seaports, land borders, and airports.

According to Comptroller Daniyan, the sensitisation aims to foster collaboration with stakeholders regarding Customs’ digital transformation via B’Odogwu and to overcome difficulties encountered during clearance document processing.

(The Customs Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, while addressing stakeholders during sensitisation on B’odogwu held on Friday in Lagos)

He encouraged stakeholders to directly approach Customs officers for assistance if they experience any platform-related challenges, emphasising the goal to reduce processing times as users gain mastery.

Daniyan highlighted the platform’s initial success, noting the first single goods declaration, valuation, and assessment were successfully processed, with payment completed on Nov. 1, 2024.

He reaffirmed Customs’ commitment to national border security and explained that the B’Odogwu application preloads bank codes and essential import details for efficient cargo clearance.

He also stressed the importance of receiving feedback after Form M submission, as incomplete information would prevent system submission.

Assistant Comptroller, NCS, Abass Oladepo reiterated the Custom’s commitment to efficiency, citing 24-hour port operations and a new two-hour cargo clearance initiative.

According to him, on average, the command has achieved port clearance in less than six hours annually.

Oladepo urged importers to embrace honest declarations and avoid duplicate entries to facilitate rapid cargo clearance, warning that improper documentation slows down operations.

He further explained that B’Odogwu integration aligns with the Comptroller-General’s core agenda: Consolidate, Collaborate, and Innovate Customs operations to enhance trade facilitation.

“Stakeholders should not shy away from processing documents online. They should avoid cutting corners and take time to file in proper documentation for their consignment,” Oladepo emphasised.

He added that Customs endeavours to ensure delivery of consignments with documentation issues while they are being resolved.

“We don’t want any kind of delay from our end, but to make Customs work easier, you need to help us by ensuring you fill in proper documentation,” he stated.

Oladepo also cited an April 2025 Central Bank letter affirming B’Odogwu’s permanent status, urging stakeholders to begin opening Form ‘M’ and Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) directly on the platform.

Alhaji Sulaimon Ayokunle, Secretary of the Association of Licensed Customs Agent (ANLCA) PTML Chapter, praised Customs for trade facilitation, acknowledging that new platforms often present initial challenges.

He noted that PTML was the pilot command for B’Odogwu and that the current sensitisation addresses initial “teething problems”.

Ayokunle advocated for other Customs commands to adopt B’Odogwu, contrasting it favorably with the foreign-developed NICIS II system as a homegrown solution for modernising Customs procedures.

“We appreciate the B’Odogwu platform; we cannot afford to lose a second of our time because our job is directly attached to demurrage and rents. We just have to do what is right and at the right time,” Ayokunle stated.

He reiterated the ANLCA’s commitment to collaborating with Customs for trade facilitation and specifically commended Assistant Comptroller Abbas Oladepo, the B’Odogwu Project Manager at PTML, for his encouragement of stakeholder integration.

Ayokunle also highlighted challenges like technology and lighting, calling for increased commitment from both Customs officers and stakeholders for the system’s smooth operation.

Mr Afeez Balogun, Manager, TDI Group, Clearing Agent, confirmed that B’Odogwu had reduced costs and enabled them to clear more cargo.

While acknowledging some staff challenges with the new system, he expressed confidence in future integration.

Balogun commended the continuous sensitisation and hoped for further stakeholder improvement.

He also raised a specific technical issue regarding the “Port of Discharge (POD)” field on the platform, noting that PTML is not yet an selectable option, in spite of importers being advised to ship to Grimaldi port at PTML.

Similarly, Mrs Chibuzo Okonkwo, Executive Director of Muchis Chamars Ltd., lauded Customs for reducing damages and appealed to stakeholders to minimise “abnormalities” in B’Odogwu processing to expedite trade.

 

Lagos:   The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted two stolen vehicles from Canada that were imported into Nigeria through the Apapa seaport.

Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Apapa Command, disclosed this at a news conference in Lagos on Thursday.

(Caption 1.Assistant Commander General of Narcotics, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Mr Buba Wakawa, Customs Area Controller, Apapa Customs Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, and Deputy Director, Port Inspection, National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) Mr Kingsley Odumah while displaying the intercepted consignment to NDLEA and NAFDAC officials in Lagos on Thursday)

Olomu said that the 40ft container contained a 2024 model Lexus of 450 vehicles with Chassis number JTJCJNGA6R2017707 and another 2023 Lexus RX 350 with Chassis number 2T2BAMCAPCO32741were falsely declared as food items.

He said the command also Intercepted five containers of Cosmetics, used clothing, and Codeine syrup worth N3.2 billion.

Olomu said that while the service facilitated trade and collects revenue for the Federal Government, the service should ensured Nigerians were protected from dangerous imports that were injurious to public health and wellbeing.

“As a result of our painstaking efforts, we recently uncovered six containers laden with prohibited items mostly unregistered pharmaceuticals. Other items seized in the containers are cosmetics, used clothing and two vehicles illegally imported into the country.

“These aboved mentioned seizures worth a total DPV of N3.247 billion.

(The sister agencies displaying synergy after seizures of contraband products in Apapa port on Thursday.)

“The seizures are container No. SUDU 8685733 (40FT) was found to contain 1,698 RTPL CSC Cough syrup with codeine concealed in 202 packages of water closet. Container No. MRSU 4846204 (40FT) was found to contain 1,690 cartons of codeine syrup concealed in the toilet seat. The two seizures have a street value of N2.7billion.

“Interestingly, these two containers were intercepted as a result of international collaboration as well as local networking with officers and men of the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

“Container No. ONEU 1153150 (40 FT) was found to contain 1,584 packages of Globatin anti-marks & 30g Clobetasol cream falsely declared as truck tyres.

“Also container No. MRSU 3258823 (40 FT) was found to contain Rabeprazole for injection, 25mg Zahifranil tablets, 1000mg vancomycin hydrochloride, cyproheptadine with vitamin B complex, and other pharmaceutical products without NAFDAC registration number, falsely declared as kitchen wares and tables.

“Container No. MRKU 0904594 (40 FT) was found to contain two stolen vehicles from Canada. A 2024 model Lexus RX 450 vehicle with chassis number JTJCJNGA6R2017707 and another 2023 Lexus RX 350 with chassis number 2T2BAMCAPCO32741 were falsely declared as food items.

“While container No. SEKU 4716830 (40 FT) was found to contain 390 bales of used clothing, which contravened the import prohibition law,”Olumu said.

The Apapa CAC explained that the command had collected over N1 trillion from importers to the government coffers before the end of May.

Olomu added that with the revenue collected from the command so far indicated that the Nigeria Customs Service would surpassed its revenue target for 2025.

“Let me use this briefing to inform you that having crossed the one trillion-naira collection before the end of the 5th month, we have so far generated a total of N1,09 trillion as of 21 May 2025.

“This collection confirms our trajectory and laudable antecedent of meeting and surpassing our target. Like we’ve done before, we are ready to do better this year.

“Our chronicle of outstanding revenue collection speaks boldly for us and attests to our capacity to do more.

“For instance, in October 2024, we collected N18.2 billion; on March 14, 2025, we recorded a feat of N18.9 billion, and on 20th May 2025, we made another record-breaking collection of N18.919billion All these are groundbreaking daily collections.”

“Let me use this briefing to warn that Apapa port will remain a no-go area for any unlawful activity and our officers are very much ready to uncover concealment and effect seizures or arrest where necessary,” Olomu said.

The Assistant Commander General of Narcotics, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr Buba Wakawa, said NDLEA intensified further in order to curtail the importation of unwanted substances right from the source.

“NDLEA signed an MOU with India to stop producing codeine to Nigerian importers, that is why they have gone to the extent of using neighbouring countries that does not have MOU with them.

“I think with the synergy that is going on now, we are closing that gap, and we will checkmate them,”Wakawa said.

The Deputy Director, Port Inspection, National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Mr Kingsley Odumah, commended the synergy between sister agencies at the port in combatting the menace of falsified and unregistered pharmaceuticals.

 

Caption:
A group picture of the Western Marine command of the Nigeria Customs Service and the AIG Maritime Command during a courtesy visit by the Comptroller Patrick Ntadi to the command in Lagos on Wednesday

Pic 2 From L-E DCP Obassi Okechukwu DC Admin, the AIG Maritime Police, Musa Garba and the Customs Area Controller Western Marine command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi during courtesy visit by the Western Marine command customs to Police Office in Lagos for collaboration.

Pics three the AIG Maritime Police, Musa Garba and the Customs Area Controller Western Marine command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi during courtesy visit by the Western Marine command customs to Police Office in Lagos for collaboration.

Pics four
From six left, the Customs Area Controller, Western Marine command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, the NDLEA Marine Commander, Mr Emmanuel Udoh, during the customs visit to the command for collaboration in Lagos on Wednesday.

Lagos:  The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has sought collaboration with the marine police and narcotics officials to combat smuggling of ammunition and drugs through waterways.

The Customs Area Controller, Patrick Ntadi, made the plea when his team visited the Marine Police and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) commands in Lagos on Wednesday.

Ntadi said his visit was to build more synergy to enable them have robust relationship in achieving more success in their core assignments of maritime security in the country.

He advocated for collaboration through intelligence sharing among the security agencies.

“In customs operations, the first person to ask for backup is police. It is only when we assist each other that we achieve more success.

“We need to resolve the issue of rivalry between lower level officers of customs and police. The officer sees operations as competition. I believe as time goes on we will resolve that.

“The level of unwanted substances that could come through the waterways are much compared to the land that is why we need to collaborate to assist our incoming generation to benefit from our untapped resources.

“There is a lot of insecurity in the system which is affecting our economy,” Ntadi said.

Also speaking, the AIG Maritime Police Command, Musa Garba, said that no organisation could succeed without synergy.

He frowned at the issue of rivalry adding that he had been an advocate in ensuring issue of rivalry was resolved.

Garba advised officers to always talk to their colleagues to shun rivalry and adopt collaboration for the betterment of the country.

“No organisation have the monopoly to do it alone.

” I want to assure you, I, as the AIG Maritime Command in charge of Western and Eastern parts of the country please feel free to call on me for any support you want police to do in the course of your duties,”Garba said.

During his visit to the (NDLEA), Marine Command in Lagos, Ntadi called for seamless operations between customs and the agency.

He acknowledged that no agency was superior to another, adding that officers of both agencies should collaborate to stop illicit drugs into the country.

Ntadi said before now Nigeria was import independent but due to exportation which expanded customs operations as they seek collaboration to stop smuggling of unwanted substances into the country.

 

 

Lagos,:  The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has expressed commitment to facilitating the importation of renewable energy technologies into the country.

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi, made this statement at the NCS Trade Facilitation Consultative Forum held in Lagos on Monday.

The theme of the forum is“Trade Facilitation Measures for Renewable Energy and Energy-Efficient Technologies”.

(The Management of the Nigeria Customs Service and the stakeholders during the first anniversary of the Advance Ruling Programme, Trade Facilitation Measures for Renewable Energy and Energy-Efficient Technologies held in Lagos on Monday)

Adeniyi, represented by the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs on Tariff and Trade Facilitation, Caroline Niagwan, said the commitment would involve enforcing fiscal measures to promote a shift from fossil fuel dependency.

He said this was with a view to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.

The Customs efforts to renewable energy primarily involve regulating import of essential equipment like solar panels ensuring duty-free and VAT-free classification to support the development of the sector.

The Nigeria Customs renewable energy operations includes classifying solar panels under specific Harmonized System (HS) codes, ensuring consistent and fair treatment of imports, and streamlining procedures for compliant businesses.

Adeniyi said that the Green Customs Initiative responds to the growing number of legally binding Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) and recognises the critical role customs play in enforcing them.

“Under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Government continues to champion policies that foster investment, ensure sustainability, and promote responsible industrial practices, as outlined in Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP),” Adeniyi said.

In his welcome address, the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in Charge of Zone ‘A’, Charles Orbih, said the Advance Ruling programme of NCS was officially inaugurated on May 2, 2024.

“Our focus on renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies showcases our innovative approach to customs administration, adapting to evolving global priorities and consumer demands.

“In alignment with one of our strategic pillars- collaboration – the Nigeria Customs Service is proud to partner with GIZ, the Nigeria Energy Support Programme (NESP) and other numerous stakeholders
to host this forum.

“The forum which reflects growing consumer demand and evolving policy focus on renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies,” Orbih said.

In a remark, representative of the Ambassador of Germany to Nigeria Mr Weert Börner, who said Customs modernization is one of the developmental objectives of his country’s collaborations with Nigeria.

Borner said that the priority was to create employment for the young population and ensure global climate friendly economies

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Power, Mr Mahmud Mamman, said trade facilitation played a crucial role in advancing renewable energy.

Mamman said that it showed energy efficiency by reducing barriers to the movement of renewable energy technologies and components across borders.

He said that simplifying customs procedures made it easier and more cost-effective to import renewable energy equipment, such as solar panels and batteries, thereby accelerating the deployment of renewable energy schemes.

Mamman said trade facilitation attracts foreign investment and expertise, enabling countries to develop advanced energy solutions and enhance efficiency.

He said the Federal Ministry of Power was committed to providing adequate, affordable, and reliable power supply which was guided by three key frameworks.

Head of Cooperation, Delegation of the European Union to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr Massimo De Luca, said the forum underscored collective commitment to addressing the critical nexus between trade policy, sustainable development, and climate action.

Represented by the Managing Director, Mrs Thessa Bagu, said that the theme of this year’s forum resonated deeply with the shared priorities of Nigeria and the European Union in fostering green growth and sustainable economic development.

“ We are proud to support Nigeria’s sustainable development agenda and energy transition plan through our extensive cooperation with the German Government.

“This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to the principles of partnership, mutual respect, and shared responsibility in addressing global challenges,” De Luca said.

The Logistics Manager, CIG Motors, Mr Agu Boniface, testified the processing of the Advance Ruling Programme, which he said had enhanced their operations and reduced time of doing business.

He said that his company applied for the Advance Ruling Programme and got feedback within 15 days of application, adding that it took them seven days to get the delivery.

The Country Director, GIZ Nigeria and ECOWAS, Dr Markus Wagner, commended NCS for the initiative, underscored the vital role the Nigeria Customs Service plays in advancing Nigeria’s sustainable development goals and energy transition.

“Through the successful launch of the Advance Ruling Systems, we have substantially simplified customs processes for importing clean energy components, directly supporting Nigeria’s ambitious green energy transformation.

“With the valuable support of our commissioning parties, in this case the German government and the European union through the Nigerian Energy Support Programme, which is implemented by GIZ in strong collaboration with the Nigerian Partners.

“Our collaboration has already delivered tangible results: shorter customs clearance times and reduced administrative burdens for clean energy importers.

“Today’s inauguration of the handbook on import and export procedure for renewable energy and energy efficient technologies represents another pivotal step toward enhancing ease of doing business across Nigerian borders,” he added.

In his paper presentation, Titled The Role of Effective Communication Strategy as a Variable Tool to Deepen Trade Facilitation, Assistant Comptroller, Abdullah Maiwada, explained the importance of communication to stakeholders in regardless of their language differences.

Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer for the Nigeria Customs Service, stated that managing stakeholder relationships would enable effective trade facilitation for sustainable growth.

He said that in today’s fast-evolving global trade environment, the strategic deployment of effective communication was not just a supportive function, but a catalyst for transformation.

Maiwada said that effective communication was a bridge between policy practice, when used deliberately and strategically.

 

(The Deputy Commander of Narcotic, Area Commander Festac, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr
Abdul Maiyaki, the Comptroller of Customs, Federal Operation Unit FOU Zone ‘A’ Muhammed Shuaibu while handing over illicit drugs and cannabis sativa to NDLEA and NAFDAC, respectively, in Lagos on Friday)

 

Customs intercepts N1.5bn contraband in Lagos

Lagos:   , The Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja said it intercepted contraband goods worth N1.5 billion and arrested four suspects within a three-week operation.

Comptroller Muhammed Shuaibu, the Customs Area Controller, revealed this during a briefing in Lagos on Friday while handing over seizures to NDLEA and NAFDAC officials.

Shuaibu, who assumed duty on April 23, confirmed the seizures with a Duty Paid Value of N1.5 billion were made between April 23 and May 16.

 

He pledged to use his experience to manage the unit effectively, saying the command had stayed true to that goal.

 

Regarding revenue, Shuaibu said the command generated N20.7 million through demand notices, auctioned perishables, and petroleum products from irregular importation.

He added that he had shifted the unit’s approach to intelligence-driven operations, reducing delays caused by traditional stop-and-search methods.

 

The unit intercepted seven 20-foot containers of illicit items in Lagos, following preliminary investigations that revealed the following:

 

Container MSKU 8551954 held used tyres and vehicles. SYDU 1479614, MSKU 7751689, and MSKU 798700 contained foreign parboiled rice.

Container ZCSU 8845072 contained new shoes, ZCSU 7055181 had new clothes, and IDU 4258491 was loaded with new bags.

 

Other seizures included 4,085 bags of 50kg foreign rice — equivalent to seven trailer loads — and 15 foreign-used vehicles.

 

Also seized were 82 packs of Tramadol with 10 sachets each, and 246 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa.

 

Additionally, 290 jerry cans of petrol and 12 bales with four sacks of used clothing were seized, all totalling N1.5 billion in value.

Shuaibu said the Nigeria Customs Service remains steadfast in combating smuggling, counterfeits, and other illicit trade.

 

He stressed that these achievements reflect a commitment to safeguarding the economy and citizens, through continued agency collaboration.

 

He thanked God and Comptroller General Bashir Adeniyi for the opportunity to lead the command.

 

Shuaibu urged the public to report suspicious smuggling activities and advised honest declarations to avoid clearance issues.

 

He added that efficient trade facilitation is crucial for economic growth, job creation, and regional integration in today’s global economy.

He pledged that intelligence-led operations would create a more transparent, inclusive, and seamless trading environment in Lagos.

 

He also thanked officers for carrying out operations without injury and appreciated the media’s role in public sensitisation.

 

NDLEA’s Festac Area Commander, Abdul Maiyaki, praised Customs for handing over the seized cannabis and a suspect.

 

He thanked sister agencies for their ongoing support in helping NDLEA fulfil its mandate.

 

NAFDAC Taskforce Chairman, Shuiba Muhammad, also praised Customs for securing the nation against harmful substances.

 

He noted Customs handed over seven trucks of illicit drugs to NAFDAC three months ago, with more intercepted now.

Muhammad said the seizures were due to effective inter-agency cooperation, which helps reduce insecurity linked to drug abuse.

 

He added that stopping such drugs from circulation helps lower the country’s insecurity levels.

(Customs CG, Adewale Adeniyi)

 

The Nigeria Customs Service has commenced the pilot phase of processing Form M through the B’Odogwu, a unified customs management system across all its commands.

According to the NCS spokesman, Abdullahi Maiwada, he said this initiative marked a significant step in the service’s ongoing technology-driven reforms aimed at modernising trade procedures and improving operational efficiency.

(ACG AbduLLAH Maiwada, Customs National PRO)

Following the service’s approval to integrate Form M processing into the B’Odogwu Trade Portal, the NCS launched preparatory activities at the Port and Terminal Multiservices Limited, Tin Can Island Port, and Apapa Area Command.

Maiwada said the selected sites would implement and support close monitoring, stakeholder engagement, and performance assessment.

Maiwada said, “During this period, a total of five hundred and forty-four (544) Form M entries were processed. Of these, 283 were successfully registered, 10 were validated, and 26 were stored for further action.

“Additionally, 41 entries were submitted, 120 were returned for corrections, 11 were queried, 14 had their PAARs locked, and 39 were recommended for approval.

“These figures reflect the robust testing and iterative learning across all participating commands.

“Furthermore, a total of 37 Pre-Arrival Assessment Reports were generated from the processed Forms M. Out of these, seven PAARs were registered, 12 had their Single Goods Declarations processed, two were fully approved, eight were recommended for further review, four were submitted for processing, and four were queried.”

He noted that the results confirmed the operational capacity of the B’Odogwu system to support end-to-end trade documentation under live implementation conditions.

“These figures reflect the robustness of the system and the iterative learning achieved during the pilot across all participating commands,” Maiwada noted.

By implementing the Form M pilot through the B’Odogwu platform, Maiwada assured a nationwide transition to streamline customs documentation, improve transparency, and accelerate clearance processes.

To further enhance trade facilitation and supply chain security during the pilot phase, NCS urges all carriers, including shipping lines and airlines, to begin transmitting manifests through the B’Odogwu platform.

Stakeholders, particularly financial institutions and traders, are also urged to ensure full preparedness for the system’s complete rollout.

Maiwada emphasised that under the leadership of Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS remains committed to pursuing strategic automation initiatives that strengthen its roles in trade facilitation, revenue generation, and national development.

 

 

Lagos: The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adeniyi, has  announced the interception of contraband items worth over N921 million as the service intensifies enforcement operations at the nation’s ports.

The items included expired food items, unregistered pharmaceutical products and controlled security equipment.

Adeniyi during a press briefing at the Apapa Command of the service said that the seizures were made between January and April.

According to him, the seizures also involved 11 separate interdictions.

He said the prohibited items included five 40-foot containers, two 20-foot containers and four seizures of loosely concealed contraband.

The CG also gave updates on the rollout of the Customs Unified Management Information System, known as B’Odogwu, describing the pilot phase at PTML and Tin Can Island Port as crucial.

He explained that his earlier visits to PTML and Tin Can that morning, before arriving at Apapa, were to gain firsthand insights of challenges faced by stakeholders with the new digital platform.

He admitted that while the B’Odogwu rollout was ambitious and necessary, the service was fully aware that initial implementation would have some hiccups.

“We are not pretending that when we roll out a very serious project of that magnitude that there will be no hitches,” he said.

He added that Customs was approaching the situation with flexibility and innovation, holding stakeholder and bank engagements to address the hiccups in the system’s deployment.

Adeniyi also explained measures towards strengthening enforcement at the Apapa Command, in line with the national strategic economic development plan and executive orders on port operations.

He said the Command had scaled up surveillance across seaports, airports, and land borders in response to evolving tactics by transnational criminal networks attempting to breach the country’s import protocols.

He raised alarm over the rising influx of unregistered pharmaceutical products, particularly sexual enhancement drugs into the Nigerian market, warning that such items posed threat to public health and safety.

He that unregistered medicines lacking mandatory certification from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) were seized.

Other items seized included expired margarine products, and restricted security gadgets including drones and telecommunication devices without end-user certificates from the Office of the National Security Adviser.

The seizures included 89 cartons of unregistered pharmaceutical products in container CAAU6514500, 242 cartons in container TCNU6880130, and 1,001 cartons of hydra-sildenafil citrate tablets in container MRSU3041714.

Another 40-footer container was found to contain 1,400 packages of various unregistered drugs, while a fifth had 805 packages falsely declared as cosmetic powder.

The service also intercepted two 20ft containers, GCNU1367992 and GCNU1372704, containing expired margarine products.

Additionally, 60 units of warrior drones without valid end-user certificates were recovered from container MSKU9329923, valued at N15.9 million.

Another 53 helicopter drones, evacuated from a container marked CFAX3, carried an estimated duty-paid value of N2.1 million.

Ten professional FM transceiver walkie-talkies were also confiscated from ENL, while a 20ft container (SUDU1408819) was found to contain 500 packages of active medicine tablets lacking NAFDAC certification.

Adeniyi disclosed that the analysis of these seizures revealed five key smuggling trends.

According to him, first was the disturbing proliferation of sexual enhancement drugs, as five of the 11 containers seized were laden with variants of sildenafil citrate and other related substances.

The CG warned that the indiscriminate use of these drugs without medical supervision could lead to serious health complications, including cardiovascular risks.

He said a second trend was a growing pattern of misdeclaration, with importers labeling pharmaceuticals as general merchandise or cosmetics in an attempt to evade detection.

According to him, two containers had pharmaceutical products concealed beneath skin creams.

He noted a third trend is the diversification of contraband shipments, with importers mixing pharmaceuticals, expired food, and restricted technology items in a single container.

This, he said, suggested the involvement of sophisticated criminal networks rather than isolated smugglers.

He said the fourth trend was the strategic selection of countries with weaker pharmaceutical export controls, indicating a deliberate attempt to exploit regulatory loopholes.

He identified the last trend of increasing importation of non-pharmaceutical security threats, including drones and communication gadgets, which raised significant concerns for national security.

The CG emphasized that the seizures were not isolated efforts but part of a broader enforcement drive that had seen the service record 22 narcotics-related interceptions in the first quarter of 2025 alone.

He credited the results to the service’s intelligence-led enforcement strategy and collaboration with regulatory agencies like NAFDAC, Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency and Office of the National Security Adviser.

Adeniyi warned that the service would not relent in its commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders and protecting the lives of its citizens.

He commended the Area Controller, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu as well as officers and men of the Apapa Command for their vigilance and professionalism, urging stakeholders within the international trade ecosystem to comply strictly with import regulations.

Concluding the briefing, the CG declared a restricted area around the five containers carrying dangerous pharmaceutical materials, urging all present to maintain a safe distance to avoid any risk of exposure.

He urged the public to remain alert and make use of confidential channels to report suspicious imports, emphasising that collective vigilance would curb the growing threat of organised transnational smuggling

Meanwhile, earlier in the day, the CGC also visited the Port & Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML) and Tin Can Island Port (TCIP) Area Commands to conduct an on-the-ground assessment of the implementation of B’Odogwu. During the visit, he met with stakeholders who were undergoing training on the application’s usage at TCIP.

He explained that the visit aimed to gain firsthand insight into the operational challenges of the new digital platform while also assuring that the Service remains fully committed to resolving emerging issues and strengthening the system in the nation’s interest.

Also speaking at the event, Dr Olakunle Olaniran, Director of Ports Inspection of NAFDAC, condemned the scale of pharmaceutical fraud exposed.

“These are completely falsified medicines. Nigerians must be wary—do not self-medicate. Always obtain your medicines from registered pharmacies.”

He praised the Customs Service for its proactive efforts in safeguarding the country against illicit and harmful pharmaceuticals.