By Nkechi Eze
The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its anti-smuggling operations, recording significant seizures and boosting revenue generation, the Acting Customs Area Controller, DC WM Adewole, announced during a press briefing at the Command’s operational headquarters in Ibadan on Thursday, 26 March 2026.
According to Adewole, the Command conducted coordinated patrols and intelligence-led operations across Oyo and Osun States, intercepting prohibited and smuggled goods in line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023. Highlights of the seizures include 1,603 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 1,351 used tyres, 206 used compressors, over 1,100 wraps of Cannabis Sativa, 3,300 packs of Tramadol, 692 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and several used vehicles, among others. The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of these seized items amounted to ₦2.53 billion.
On revenue generation, the Command achieved a remarkable ₦14.7 billion within the period under review, marking a 46.22% increase over the ₦10.1 billion collected in the same period last year. Adewole credited this growth to enhanced enforcement measures, blocking revenue leakages, and ensuring compliance with import and export regulations.
The Acting Area Controller also issued a stern warning to smugglers and economic saboteurs, emphasizing that the Command would continue to enforce government fiscal policies and protect the nation’s economy. He further appealed to the public to support Customs operations by providing timely intelligence and complying with legal trade procedures.
Adewole acknowledged the support of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders whose collaboration has been instrumental in the Command’s successes. He also commended members of the press for their role in disseminating accurate information and raising public awareness about the dangers of smuggling.
The Oyo/Osun Area Command reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and integrity in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and promoting lawful trade.
