Ogun Customs Service Intensifies Anti-Smuggling Efforts

The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, under the leadership of Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Olukayode Afeni, is actively combating smuggling along Nigeria's border with the Republic of Benin. Afeni, a seasoned anti-smuggling officer with nearly two decades of experience, views smuggling as a significant economic and security threat that harms local industries and employment.

He emphasizes that smuggling, particularly of foreign parboiled rice, negatively impacts Nigerian farmers and local businesses by flooding the market with cheaper alternatives. This practice not only reduces Customs revenue but also threatens the livelihoods of rice producers in various northern states, including Borno, Yobe, and Kebbi.

Afeni asserts that the Customs Service will continue to make Ogun State increasingly hostile to smugglers to protect legitimate trade and support local economic growth.