Customs FOU Zone ‘A’ Seizes ₦3.14 Billion Worth of Smuggled Goods in Three Weeks
The Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’ (FOU ‘A’) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made a major breakthrough with the interception of 76 smuggled and contraband items valued at ₦3,140,680,000.00 within a three-week period.
A breakdown of the seized goods includes: 4,068 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg), equivalent to seven trailer load, 22 used vehicles, including two Ashok Leyland drilling trucks, 485 jerry cans of 25 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), totaling 12,125 litres, 120 bales of used clothing, 57 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, 47 cartons of frozen poultry products, 770 jerry cans (25 litres each) of foreign vegetable oil.
Additionally, the Unit intercepted several 4 x 40ft
containers carrying diverse contraband items like, sacks of used shoes and canvas, Auto spare parts, used tyres, and vehicles, Furniture, Pali Bitters drinks etc.
Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, Customs Area Controller of FOU Zone ‘A’, revealed that the seizures were made at strategic locations across the South-Western states, including Ilaro, Owode, Ajilete, and Imeko-Afon in Ogun State; the Ondo/Ekiti axis; Shaki and Iseyin in Oyo State; and the Lagos metropolis.
A total of 13 suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures. While some have been granted administrative bail, others have been handed over to relevant security agencies for further investigation and prosecution.
In line with the Service’s commitment to inter-agency collaboration, the seized Cannabis Sativa has been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further action. Comptroller Shuaibu emphasized that the operations reflect the strategic effectiveness and vigilance of the Unit.
He noted, “FOU ‘A’ also plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with import and export regulations. We continue to scrutinize questionable declarations, correct undervaluation, and issue Demand Notices (DNs) where necessary.”
Between July 18 and August 12, 2025, the Unit recovered ₦47,834,397.29 through issued Demand Notices.
Comptroller Shuaibu commended the tireless efforts of his operatives and reaffirmed the Unit’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests.
“We will not relent in our mission to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s trade environment,” he added.
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