The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kwara State Command, has intercepted smuggled goods valued at ₦478 million as part of intensified efforts to curb illegal trade across the state.

The command also generated over ₦2.5 billion in excise revenue for the Federal Government within a period of less than two months.

The Acting Controller of the command, Najeem Akanmu Ogundeyi, disclosed this during a press briefing held at the command’s headquarters in Ilorin on Wednesday.

Ogundeyi explained that the seizures reflect the command’s renewed operational strategy focused on intelligence gathering, coordinated patrols, and the strategic deployment of officers across identified smuggling routes.

According to him, items seized during the operations include 1,170 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, 44 bags of 50kg imported sugar, 317 jerrycans of petrol, 120 sacks of illegally mined lithium ore, 60 sacks of second-hand clothing, 222 units of used compressors, and 15 used tyres, among other items.

He stated that the Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized goods stands at ₦478,171,315, highlighting the scale of attempted economic sabotage and the vigilance demonstrated by officers of the command.

“These interceptions reflect our unwavering commitment to intelligence-driven enforcement operations,” Ogundeyi said.

He noted that the operations are necessary to curb economic sabotage, protect legitimate businesses, safeguard government revenue, and ensure compliance with existing laws regulating cross-border trade.

The acting controller warned that smuggling would not be tolerated under his leadership, stressing that the Kwara Area Command would no longer serve as a safe haven for illegal trading activities.

Ogundeyi also commended the strong collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service, Kwara Area Command, and other security and regulatory agencies, which he said contributed significantly to the successes recorded.

He further praised the Controller-General of Customs and acknowledged the support and partnership of the media.

While urging members of the public to embrace lawful trade practices and avoid smuggling and other illegal economic activities, he emphasised that tackling smuggling requires collective effort.

“The fight against smuggling is not the responsibility of the Nigeria Customs Service alone; it requires the collective commitment of all stakeholders, including border communities, traders, and the general public,” he said.