NCS Ogun 1 Command Shields Local Businesses, Seized Prohibited Items Worth #1.35 Billion

By Stella Okocha

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting local industries and sanitising the market, following a series of anti-smuggling operations that led to the interception of prohibited goods valued at over ₦1.35 billion.

Speaking during a press briefing held at the command on Monday, 16 March 2026, the Acting Customs Area Controller (CAC), Oladapo Afeni, said the Command’s enforcement drive is focused on eliminating unfair competition and safeguarding the nation’s economy.

“In our continuous efforts at stamping out unhealthy competition with our dedicated local producers of vegetable oil in Nigeria, officers of the command on Precise Intelligence Patrol around Agbara axis on 11 March 2026 successfully intercepted a truck conveying 2,539 kegs of vegetable oil at 25litres each”, Afeni said.

He revealed that the seizure followed an earlier operation on 4 March 2026, when officers intercepted a Sino truck loaded with 4,325 cartons of foreign spaghetti, each weighing 10 kilograms, indicating a sustained pattern of smuggling essential commodities into the country.

“By removing these illicit goods from the market, we are ensuring a competitive trade environment that protects our local vegetable oil industry and safeguards the health of our citizens”, he stated.

Afeni listed other intercepted items, including 204 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 2,547 parcels of cannabis sativa, 545 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (13,625 litres), 36 cartons of Bardinet syrup, and four live pangolins, which have since been handed over to wildlife conservation authorities.

Additional seizures include 50 bags of imported sugar, 13 used tyres, second-hand clothing, used footwear, handbags, two used vehicles, perfume oil, and artefacts with a cumulative Duty Paid Value of ₦1,350,751,000.

In line with inter-agency collaboration, the seized cannabis and artefacts were handed over to relevant agencies, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Receiving the items, Deputy Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA Idiroko Special Area Command, Ganiyu Adeyoye, commended Customs for its continued support.