The Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has dismissed a publication circulating online alleging misconduct by its officers along the Seme corridor, describing the report as misleading and unfounded.
According to a press release signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Isah Sulaiman, the Command urges the public to disregard the claims, insisting that its operations remain transparent and professional.
Since Comptroller Wale Adenuga assumed office as Area Controller in September 2025, enforcement along the Lagos–Abidjan corridor has been intensified through renewed collaboration with the Nigerian military and other security agencies. The Command noted that the reactivation of the Joint Border Security Meeting (JBSM) has strengthened joint operations aimed at tackling smuggling and other cross-border crimes.
Customs authorities believe the surge in enforcement, especially during the festive period, may have prompted pushback from individuals whose illicit activities are being disrupted. The Command said such groups often resort to misinformation and sensational online reports when their operations are blocked.
The Command also reported a significant rise in monthly revenue, attributing the increase to blocked leakages, improved enforcement, and better facilitation of legitimate trade. Revenue collection, previously averaging between ₦500 million and ₦600 million monthly, surged to over ₦1.5 billion in September and surpassed ₦2.5 billion in October, representing growth of over 300 percent.
Data released by the Command shows that between September 9 and date, officers intercepted more than 4,000 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, equivalent to about seven trailer loads, alongside five trailer loads of expired flour. Other seizures include endangered wildlife species such as a lion cub and patas monkeys, and over 2,000 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, among others.
Reaffirming its commitment to professionalism and zero tolerance for corruption, the Seme Area Command said it would continue to safeguard national security and facilitate lawful trade along the busy Lagos–Abidjan corridor.
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