By Bon Peters
LAGOS/Nigeria: The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Western Marine Command has intercepted and seized contraband goods valued at over N352.9 million, in what authorities have described as a major offensive against smugglers threatening Nigeria’s economic security and public safety.
Announcing the seizure during a press briefing at the Command’s headquarters in Lagos on Tuesday, the Area Controller, Comptroller PN Ntadi, said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to reinforce border security along Nigeria’s waterways. He noted that the seizures included 2,017 bags of foreign rice, 481 loaves of cannabis sativa, 72 bundles of foreign textiles, seven bags of sugar, and nine locally constructed boats, all with a combined Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N352,952,200.
Comptroller Ntadi emphasized that the Western Marine Command remains focused on its mandate despite operational challenges. He explained that the ongoing demolition and restructuring of parts of the command’s surroundings was aimed at removing security threats and uplifting the physical structure. “The area has long been a haven for hoodlums and illegal activity. We’re acting to secure our men and our facilities,” he said.
He further attributed the Command’s operational success to enhanced intelligence sharing and collaboration with other security agencies, including the Nigerian Navy, Marine Police, Immigration, and NDLEA. He praised the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for providing vital resources and patrol vessels that have strengthened maritime surveillance and enforcement.
Ntadi also appealed to members of the public to support the fight against smuggling by reporting suspicious activity. “Smugglers not only evade duties; they destabilize our economy and endanger lives by trading in harmful substances,” he said. “We will remain vigilant, proactive, and committed to ensuring that criminal networks are dismantled and legitimate trade is protected.”
The Comptroller concluded by reaffirming the Western Marine Command’s readiness to adapt to emerging smuggling tactics, promising sustained pressure on illicit trade networks operating along Nigeria’s waterways.
