Nigeria Customs Service Seizes N6.19bn in Contraband

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), under the leadership of Acting Controller Oladapo Afeni, seized contraband items valued at approximately N6.19 billion and thwarted 195 smuggling attempts within four weeks. Afeni stated that these efforts are crucial for safeguarding Nigeria's economic development and enforcing customs laws.

The seizures included various prohibited items, such as 3,028 bags of smuggled rice, 5,986 parcels of cannabis, 173 cartons of frozen poultry, and 6,949 cartons of spaghetti, among others. Afeni highlighted that these operations are driven by intelligence and collaboration with relevant agencies, aiming to protect legitimate trade and ensure that those undermining the economy face consequences.

He noted that the volume of cannabis seized is particularly concerning, referencing the World Drug Report of 2025, which indicates cannabis as a significant issue in drug use disorders globally. Afeni reaffirmed the NCS's commitment to professional and transparent customs operations.