The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ikeja, has recorded significant successes in its anti smuggling operations, intercepting contraband goods with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over N3.3 billion within a few weeks.
The Controller of the Unit, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, disclosed this on Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026, during his maiden press briefing at the command headquarters Ikeja, Lagos.
Addressing journalists, Aliyu described the briefing as his first official engagement with the media since he assumed office and the unit’s first interaction with the press in 2026. He reaffirmed the commitment of the command to strengthening border security, protecting the economy, and upholding professionalism in line with the mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service.
He explained that upon assumption of duty, the unit adopted a new operational strategy anchored on Change Management, Compliance Management, and Reputational Management, driven by inclusivity and intelligence led deployment. According to him, routine and predictable checkpoints were replaced with targeted patrols based on credible intelligence, particularly within the Lagos metropolis, leading to improved operational efficiency.
Aliyu said the new approach resulted in the interception of 144 smuggling attempts involving 6,954 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 77 bags of foreign sugar, 21 units of used vehicles, 3,362 jerrycans of vegetable oil, 20,700 litres of PMS, 915 bales of used clothing, One 20 foot container of stone coated aluminium roofing sheets
In a boost to the fight against drug trafficking, Aliyu revealed that the command also intercepted 3,029 parcels of a synthetic strain of cannabis, popularly known as “Ghanaian Loud,” weighing about 1,431 kilogrammes. He noted that the seizure significantly disrupted drug supply networks and helped curb crimes associated with substance abuse.
He added that the intensified anti-drug campaign was carried out against the backdrop of rising security challenges in the country, including banditry and terrorism, which are often fuelled by illicit drugs. He however, disclosed that the command lost one of its officers in the line of duty, describing the incident as a painful sacrifice in service to the nation.
The CAC also announced the interception of four live pangolins along Alapa Creek in Ajilete, which were handed over to the Wildlife Conservation Centre. He said the action reflected Nigeria’s commitment to enforcing wildlife protection laws and discouraging illegal trade in endangered species.
Aliyu disclosed that the unit seized 581 used refrigerator compressors concealed in a vehicle, noting that the importation violated environmental regulations and the Basel Convention. According to him, such items contain hazardous substances capable of polluting the environment and contributing to ozone layer depletion if improperly disposed of.
He said eight suspects were arrested in connection with the various seizures and that investigations were ongoing to ensure their prosecution in line with the law. He added that the seized cannabis would be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.
Beyond enforcement activities, he said the command also intensified efforts to promote trade compliance and safeguard government revenue. Through the issuance of Demand Notices over cases of misdeclaration , the unit recovered N36.89 million within the period under review.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the NCS to collaborating with sister security agencies, stakeholders, and border communities in suppressing smuggling, illicit trade, and other trans-border crimes. He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, assuring that all information would be treated with strict confidentiality.
Comptroller Aliyu commended the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the management team for the opportunity to serve. He commended officers of the unit for their dedication and professionalism and appreciated the media for their continued support.
He assured that the command would remain resolute in protecting the nation’s economy, facilitating legitimate trade, and discharging its duties with integrity and accountability.
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