Nigeria Customs Service Enhances Smuggling Enforcement Efforts

Under the leadership of Acting Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its fight against smuggling in the South West region. Afeni, who oversees the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’, has implemented intelligence-driven operations targeting illicit drugs, unapproved pharmaceuticals, and other prohibited items.

Since taking over from the Idiroko command, Afeni has emphasized intelligence gathering and collaboration with security agencies. Recent operations led to the interception of illicit drugs with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N511.4 million, including cannabis, cocaine, and codeine syrup.

Notably, on October 10, 2026, a patrol team intercepted a Toyota Hiace bus on the Lagos-Benin Expressway, uncovering concealed drugs. The operations also resulted in the rescue of eight live pangolins in Ogun State.

The seized items were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control for further investigation.