NIGERIA CUSTOMS

WELCOME TO THE OFFICIAL TWITTER HANDLE OF NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE

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Happy International Customs Day 2026
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Customs Moves to Protect Local Industry, Seizes Smuggled Vegetable Oil Worth ₦403.5m

In a major anti-smuggling operation by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C, over 3,310 jerrycans of foreign vegetable oil were seized with a Duty Paid Value of ₦403.5 million, dealing a significant blow to illicit trade networks.

At a press briefing on Monday, 15 June 2026, in Owerri, Imo State, by the unit head, Comptroller of Customs, Bishir Balogun, the seizure followed strategic intelligence coordination and sustained enforcement efforts by the Unit's officers.

According to him, the seized items comprise 3,310 jerrycans of 25-litre “Super Delicious” vegetable oil, 10 jerrycans of 10-litre “Super Delicious” vegetable oil, 20 cartons of 5-litre sunflower vegetable oil, and 20 cartons of 3-litre sunflower vegetable oil.

He disclosed that operatives intercepted one of the trucks at about 10pm on 9 May 2026 along the 9th Mile axis in Enugu State, while another was apprehended on 7 June 2026 along the Onitsha–Agbor Highway following credible intelligence, with a total Duty Paid Value of ₦403,491,000.

“This seizure represents a major blow to economic saboteurs whose illegal importation of foreign vegetable oil undermines local industry, technology transfer, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings,” he said.

“Let me emphasise that the operation demonstrates the Service's firm commitment to enforcing the NCS Act 2023 and the Federal Government's fiscal and protective measures that prohibit the importation of foreign vegetable oil,” Balogun added.

He warned individuals and syndicates involved in smuggling activities to desist from such acts, stressing that the Service would continue to deploy intelligence-led strategies to safeguard public health, national security, and the domestic economy.

Comptroller Balogun further disclosed that the seized vegetable oil remains in Customs custody pending the conclusion of investigations and the commencement of appropriate legal proceedings.

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Happy International Day of the African Children!

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Customs Trains Officer to Strengthen Environmental Trade Regulations

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified efforts to curb the illegal trade in environmentally sensitive commodities by organizing a four-day Train the Trainers workshop aimed at enhancing the capacity of its officers in enforcing environmental trade regulations.

The workshop, which held from June 8 to 11, 2026, brought together Customs officers for intensive training on environmental governance, trade control measures, enforcement strategies and inter-agency collaboration to strengthen compliance with international environmental conventions.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, represented by the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Strategic Research and Policy, Nafiu Isiyaku, commended stakeholders whose support contributed to the successful implementation of the programme.

Adeniyi said the success of the training would be measured not only by the knowledge acquired by participants but by their ability to transfer such knowledge to other officers and translate it into improved operational outcomes across various Customs formations.

According to him, "We have explored critical issues relating to environmental governance, trade control measures, enforcement strategies and inter-agency collaboration, all of which are essential to protecting our environment and securing our borders."

Also speaking, Regional Programme Officer of the International Trade Centre (ITC), Richard Eke-Motoho, lauded the NCS for its commitment to building expertise in environmental trade regulation.
He said the programme was expected to create a larger pool of national trainers who could eventually serve as regional resource persons, thereby strengthening capacity across the region and promoting environmentally sustainable trade practices.

"The International Trade Centre and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) will continue to collaborate in strengthening initiatives that promote regional integration and economic development," Eke-Motoho said.

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NCS, UAE Customs Foil Tramadol Smuggling Attempt

In collaboration with international partners, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has foiled an attempt to smuggle a large consignment of Tap Tramadol 250mg through the Murtala Muhammed Area Command (MMAC).

The intercepted shipment was formally handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Thursday, 11 June 2026, for further investigation and action.

Speaking during the official handover ceremony, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller of Customs, Godwin Otunla, noted that the operation reflects the NCS's sustained efforts to combat the trafficking of controlled substances that pose serious threats to public health and national security.

He commended the officers of the Special WILD Office of the NCS Intelligence Unit for their professionalism and timely intelligence, which played a critical role in the successful interception. He also praised the dedication and teamwork of officers and men involved in the operation.

The CAC further acknowledged the technical support and cooperation received from the United Arab Emirates' Customs. "Their assistance was instrumental in identifying and intercepting this illegal shipment, further demonstrating the importance of international collaboration in the fight against transnational crime,” he said.

The CAC further reaffirmed the NSC's commitment to strengthening inter-agency collaboration and intelligence-driven operations in the collective interest of national security.

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Happy Monday…

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Happy Democracy Day

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Happy Democracy Day 2026

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Customs Honours Retiring DCG Omale, Celebrates Legacy of Service

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has honoured retiring Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG) Musa Omale, with the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, and members of the Management Team paying tribute to his years of dedicated service, professionalism, and contributions to the Service.

The ceremony, held on Friday, 5 June 2026, at the Service Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, brought together senior officers who reflected on the retiring officer’s career and legacy in the Service.

Speaking at the event, CGC Adeniyi said the Service’s tradition of celebrating officers at retirement provides an opportunity to share goodwill messages, offer advice, and recognise their contributions as they begin a new phase of life.

He described DCG Omale as an officer known for his love of books, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to personal development.

Reflecting on the importance of legacy in public service, Adeniyi noted that officers are remembered by the impact of their actions and conduct.

“When we are in service, we leave imprints and footprints because we never know how people will make reference to them later,” Adeniyi said.

He advised the retiring officer to exercise caution in future investments and engagements, warning against ventures that are not properly understood, while praying for good health and continued opportunities for him to contribute to national development.

DCG Timi Bomodi recalled meeting DCG Omale 35 years ago when they both arrived in Port Harcourt as attachés, describing him as an officer whose character remained consistent throughout his career.

According to Bomodi, the retiring officer distinguished himself through humility, intellect, and dependability, earning the respect of colleagues across the Service.

“You have remained yourself all through. You are reliable and dependable, and your word is your bond,” Bomodi said.

Director of Legal Services, Smart Akande, also reflected on their time together in Port Harcourt, where they worked on prosecution matters.

He described Omale as articulate, diligent, and quiet, noting that his cooperation contributed significantly to the successful handling of several cases.

“I will not be surprised if he becomes a professor after retirement,” Akande said.

Also, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs Nafiu Isiaku commended Omale’s passion for learning, attention to detail, commitment to excellence, and willingness to mentor younger officers.

They noted that despite attaining senior ranks in the Service, he remained approachable, disciplined, and dedicated to knowledge-sharing.

Responding, DCG Omale expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General, members of the Management Team, and colleagues for the honour accorded him.

He described himself as a calm person who approaches life steadily and attributed his interest in academia to experiences gained during his early years in the Service.

The retired DCG also recalled representing his superior at a board meeting at his younger age, an experience he described as a defining moment in his professional journey.

Omale pledged to remain available whenever called upon to support the Service and commended the Comptroller-General of Customs for his listening leadership style.

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Customs Signs MoU with British American Tobacco to Combat IllicitTobacco Trade

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Customs, Police Deepen Collaboration on National Security

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening inter-agency cooperation to address security challenges and enhance national stability.

The commitment was reiterated during a strategic engagement between the Comptroller-General of Customs, (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi, and the Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Disu Olatunji, at the NCS Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, on Wednesday, 3 June 2026.

Welcoming the IGP, Adeniyi congratulated him on his appointment and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the NPF effectively.

He emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among security agencies in tackling emerging threats and safeguarding national interests.

“The NCS stands with the NPF in these challenging times. We will continue to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and security across the country. Together, we can strengthen the safety and stability of our nation,” he said.

Adeniyi noted that sustained cooperation between both organisations would enhance operational effectiveness, intelligence sharing, and coordinated responses to security challenges.

In his remarks, the IGP thanked CGC Adeniyi and his Management Team for the warm reception, describing the visit as an opportunity to further strengthen the longstanding relationship between the two agencies.

“The purpose of this visit is to deepen our relationship and reaffirm that you have a reliable partner in the NPF. Sustained collaboration among our personnel will enhance our collective efforts in addressing security challenges,” he said.

The engagement provided an opportunity for both agencies to discuss areas of mutual interest and reinforce their shared commitment to national security, peace, and development.

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Customs Unveils Special Operations Against Vegetable Oil Smuggling to Protect Local Investments

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified efforts to combat the smuggling of vegetable oil into the country, with plans to launch intelligence-driven special operations aimed at protecting local investments, preserving jobs, and supporting the growth of the agricultural value chain.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed this on Friday, 5 June 2026, during a meeting with stakeholders in the vegetable oil industry at the Service Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.

Adeniyi said the Service remains committed to tackling smuggling through strategic enforcement, intelligence gathering, and stakeholder collaboration. He noted that Customs and operators in the vegetable oil sector share a common objective of protecting legitimate businesses, encouraging investment, and strengthening the national economy.

CGC Adeniyi explained that addressing smuggling requires sustained cooperation between government agencies and the private sector, particularly in sectors that contribute significantly to employment generation and economic development.

He also called on stakeholders to support enforcement efforts by providing credible intelligence on smuggling routes and illicit trade activities.

“Fighting smuggling is a continuous process that requires intelligence, policy support and collaboration. We value constructive engagement with stakeholders and will continue to strengthen our partnership with the private sector,” he stated.

Also speaking, the Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Enforcement, Inspection and Investigation, Timi Bomodi, highlighted the Service’s achievements in curbing the illegal importation of vegetable oil products.

Bomodi disclosed that Customs recorded several seizures across key border corridors and assured stakeholders that surveillance would be intensified in vulnerable locations.

“We recorded about 65 seizures of vegetable oil products in 2025 and another 23 seizures in 2026, with a combined Duty Paid Value of approximately N1.314 billion,” he said.

He noted that many of the seizures were made along major smuggling corridors, including Seme and Idiroko, adding that surveillance would also be strengthened in other identified vulnerable locations.

Leading the industry delegation, the Founder of the Plantation Owners Forum of Nigeria, Dr Fatai Afolabi, commended the Service for creating a platform for dialogue while drawing attention to the need to clamp down on vegetable oil smuggling into the country.

“Smuggling of vegetable oil will undermining local production, discouraging investment and threatening thousands of jobs across the value chain,” Afolabi stated.

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Customs, Media Strengthen Collaboration On Stakeholder Awareness in Kano

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NCS Targets Rehabilitation of Ife Girls High School Under 'Customs Cares' Initiative

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced plans to rehabilitate the infrastructure of Ife Girls High School, Modakeke, in Ife Local Government Area of Osun State, under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme 'Customs Cares'.

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed this on Friday, 29 May 2026, during an assessment visit to the school aimed at evaluating the scope of intervention required ahead of the commencement of rehabilitation works.

The visit formed part of ongoing efforts by the Service to identify and address critical needs in public institutions through its Customs Cares Initiative, with education remaining one of the programme’s priority areas.

Speaking during the inspection, CGC Adeniyi said the decision to intervene followed reports on the condition of the school and a firsthand assessment of its facilities.

“There is so much to be done here, and what I have come to do is a preliminary assessment of the scope of work required,” he said.

According to him, the school, established over six decades ago, was once renowned for academic excellence and a disciplined learning culture but has suffered years of neglect that have adversely affected its facilities and learning environment.

He expressed concern over the state of classrooms, laboratories, sanitary facilities, and the library, noting that some sections of the school had become overgrown and unsafe for students.

The CGC assured that the proposed intervention would be carefully executed to avoid disrupting academic activities, adding that necessary approvals had been secured while consultations with relevant stakeholders were ongoing to ensure smooth implementation.

He also called on school authorities, parents, and members of the community to support efforts aimed at maintaining the facilities after rehabilitation, stressing that sustainable development requires collective responsibility.

“We are determined to contribute towards creating a conducive learning environment that will inspire students and support educational development,” he stated.

Principal of the school, Mrs. Akinremi Martina, described the planned intervention as timely and impactful, expressing confidence that it would significantly improve learning conditions and reposition the school for greater academic achievements.

Providing a technical assessment of the facility, the Managing Director of Oak Builders Company, Engr. Kehinde Adeyimo, identified major structural concerns, including damaged perimeter fencing and encroached portions of the premises, which he said would require attention during the rehabilitation process.

He noted that the planned intervention is expected to improve the learning environment, strengthen security within the school, and contribute to the overall development of education in the community through the Customs Cares Initiative.

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Customs, Stakeholders Close Ranks Against Smuggling in Ondo/Ekiti

The Acting Customs Area Controller (Ag. CAC) of the Ondo/Ekiti Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC) Patience Ita, has intensified efforts to strengthen security collaboration in the state through strategic engagements with traditional authorities and sister security agencies.

According to a press release issued by the Command Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Customs Nzubechi Iheagwaram on 5 June 2026, DC Ita paid a courtesy visit to the Deji of Akure and Paramount Ruler of Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, as part of moves to formally introduce herself to the host community and seek royal support for her administration.

According to the statement, the visit formed part of a broader stakeholder engagement strategy aimed at fostering cooperation and strengthening the operational effectiveness of the NCS within the Ondo/Ekiti axis.

The Ag. CAC also meet with the Comptroller of Immigration, Ondo State Command, Ephraim Ogbemudia, and the State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nanzing Sallah, to discuss measures for enhanced inter-agency cooperation.

The discussions focused on improving intelligence sharing and building a coordinated response to smuggling, human trafficking, illicit drug trafficking and other transborder crimes affecting the region.

Speaking during the engagements, DC Ita stressed that effective border security and economic protection require strong partnerships among security agencies and host communities.

“Securing our borders and ensuring economic stability requires a seamless, collective effort. We cannot do it alone. Building a solid bridge between the NCS, our host communities, and our sister agencies is paramount to our success,” she said.

She Commended Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi's collaborative efforts with other security agencies in combating smuggling.

In their separate remarks, the Immigration Comptroller and NDLEA Commander welcomed the initiative and commended the Ag. CAC for prioritising collaboration at the onset of her tenure.

They reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between their agencies and the NCS, pledging sustained operational support and closer cooperation in tackling security challenges across Ondo State and its environs.

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ASR-NCS Hospital, J4PD Partner to Advance Public Health in Bauchi

The Abdul Samad Rabiu Nigeria Customs Service (ASR-NCS) Hospital, Bauchi, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Journalists for Public Health and Development Initiative (J4PD) to advance public health and community development in Bauchi State and the wider North-East region.

The commitment was made on 3 June 2026 during a courtesy visit by members of the J4PD to the Zonal Medical Officer, Zone 'D', and Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the ASR-NCS Hospital, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC) Dr. Sunusi Garba.

Leading the delegation, Executive Director of J4PD, Elizabeth Kah, said the visit was aimed at establishing a strategic partnership with the hospital in promoting public health initiatives. She commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for facilitating the establishment of the 60-bed ultra-modern healthcare facility located in Yelwan Tudu, Bauchi State.

According to her, the hospital has improved access to efficient, effective, and affordable healthcare services for officers and men of the NCS as well as members of the public. She stressed that public health remains a critical pillar of societal development and deserves greater attention from stakeholders.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Bauchi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Umar Saidu, lauded the NCS for establishing the hospital in the North-East region to address critical healthcare challenges. He pledged the union's support for community outreach programmes, particularly initiatives aimed at providing free healthcare services to host communities.

In his remarks, DC Garba welcomed the delegation and underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing healthcare gaps across the North-East and North-Central regions of the country.

"We appreciate this visit and the interest shown by J4PD in partnering with us. Collaboration among stakeholders is essential to bridging healthcare gaps and improving access to quality healthcare services across the North-East and North-Central regions of Nigeria," he said.

Dr. Garba explained that the hospital was established through a partnership between the ASR Africa Initiative and the NCS under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs.

He disclosed that since its commissioning on February 17, 2026, the hospital has provided medical care to 575 patients, conducted 410 laboratory tests, recorded 150 admissions, and successfully carried out 15 minor surgeries and one major surgery.

"These figures reflect our commitment to delivering quality healthcare services to both Customs personnel and members of the public. We remain ready to collaborate with organisations such as J4PD in future outreach programmes that will further improve health outcomes in our communities," Dr. Garba stated.

The CMD further expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs for his continued support towards the development of the facility.

"I also wish to express our profound appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs for his unwavering support and commitment to the growth and development of this hospital," he added.

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OFFICIAL MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER OF THE NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE (40th EDITION)

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Join industry leaders shaping Africa’s energy and natural resources future at the Africa National Resources & Energy Investment Summit 2026, taking place June 23–25, 2026, in Abuja, Nigeria.
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Happy Friday!

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CGC Adeniyi Strengthens Global Partnerships at Customs Diplomatic Reception

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on 3 June 2026 hosted a high-level diplomatic cocktail reception in Abuja, bringing together ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of missions, and senior government officials in a strategic engagement aimed at strengthening international cooperation, trade relations, and institutional partnerships.

The event, held at the rooftop of the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters, Maitama, Abuja, also attracted the Chief of the Air Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, members of the Customs Management, and other senior officials from key security and government institutions.

Welcoming the diplomatic community, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi MFR, expressed appreciation for the sustained support of international partners in strengthening bilateral relations and advancing global trade cooperation with Nigeria.

“We recognize and appreciate your contributions to strengthening diplomatic and trade relations. The Service remains committed to providing the support and services required for diplomatic missions to operate effectively in Nigeria,” he said.

He noted that NCS continues to deepen its global footprint through structured collaboration frameworks with over twenty customs administrations worldwide, focusing on knowledge exchange, capacity development, and operational synergy aimed at improving trade facilitation and border management.

According to him, sustained collaboration among customs administrations, diplomatic missions, and security agencies remains critical to achieving efficient border security, enhanced revenue generation, and improved economic competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global trade environment.

The CGC further emphasised that modern Customs administration now operates within a highly interconnected global system, requiring continuous engagement, trust-building, and shared responsibility among international partners to address emerging challenges in trade, security, and compliance management.

He added that platforms such as the diplomatic reception provide valuable opportunities for dialogue, relationship building, and the exploration of new areas of cooperation that will further strengthen Nigeria’s trade and diplomatic architecture.

The evening concluded with networking sessions and goodwill messages from participants, with senior government officials and diplomatic representatives commending the NCS for its consistent efforts in fostering stronger institutional ties and promoting an enabling environment for international collaboration.