By Femi Anamelechi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has intensified the fight against smuggling with seizure of 1,202 kegs of vegetable oil with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N120.2 million across various locations in Ogun and Oyo state.The recent seizure was disclosed by the spokesperson of the command, Mr Chado Zakari in a press statement on Tuesday April 1 2026 in Abeokuta.Zakari said the seizures as a result of two intelligence-led operations conducted on March 19 and March 24. He quoted the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, as saying the operation was part of efforts to curb smuggling and protect local producers.“These seizures are a significant win for the economy. By removing illicit goods from the market, we are curbing unfair competition and supporting local manufacturers,”The Command’s Public relations officer further pointed out that the operation followed earlier interceptions of 2,539 kegs of vegetable oil on March 11, and 2,090 kegs on Dec. 16, 2025.
In a related development, the command handed over 285 sacks of mica stones, each weighing 50kg and valued at N104.78 million, to the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development. Zakari said the minerals were intercepted during a routine anti-smuggling operation. According to him the seizure reflected the command’s mandate to prevent illegal export of solid minerals and safeguard government revenue. “A truck containing 1,202 kegs of vegetable oil was intercepted by NCS, Ogun 1 Area Command on Tuesday in Abeokuta, Afeni represented by Assistant Comptroller Emmanuel Onyeasor, said illegal mineral trade poses risks to both economic stability and national security. He added that the handover underscores inter-agency collaboration in enforcing mining and environmental regulations. Speaking during the handing over a representative of the Ministry, Mr Abimbola Olubunmi, commended the command for its vigilance and professionalism. He said the ministry would conduct further geological analysis and integrate the minerals into the national database as part of efforts to strengthen regulation of the mining sector. Olubumi also pointed out the improved export activities in March 2026, reflecting increased efficiency in trade processes and enhanced monitoring along the Idiroko border.
