By Femi Anamelechi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’, has pledged to sustain its fight against smuggling and economic sabotage, following a series of seizures valued at over ₦1.28 billion within two weeks. The Comptroller of the Unit, Mohammed Shuaibu, made this declaration during a press briefing held at the unit’s headquarters on Tuesday, 3 July 2025. He described the latest operations as a testament to the unit’s renewed commitment to intelligence-led enforcement, stating that it will sustain more formidable defense against smugglers.
“As criminals get more desperate and daring, we at the Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’ will ensure the sustainability of a more formidable defense against any antics devised by these non-state actors”, Comptroller Shuaibu declared. “The Nigeria Customs Service will continue to design and implement sustainable programs that will grow our economy, increase revenue for the government, and encourage legitimate trade”, he added. The seizures include; 1,665 kg of Cannabis Sativa (Indian hemp), 1263 used tyres, bulletproof vests, and pharmaceutical products including Tramadol, 2,051 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 11 used vehicles, Seven Mitsubishi Canters, five Toyota Hiace buses, and three mini shuttle buses, all cut up and concealed to evade duties, among others. Seven suspects were arrested in connection with these seizures.In addition to the seizures, the unit recovered ₦48.34 million in lost revenue through the issuance of demand notices on improperly declared goods. Shuaibu also highlighted morale-boosting measures introduced under his leadership, including the revival of monthly parades and weekly sports. “As of today, we have resuscitated the monthly parades and weekly sporting activities.”He commended officers for their unwavering dedication, steadfastness, gallantry, and integrity which led to the achievements, while also appreciating stakeholders and partners.
