The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made seizures worth ₦582.2 million and unveiled major infrastructural and operational upgrades .
During a press briefing and decoration of the Command’s newly promoted officers at the Command on 18th September, 2025, the Controller of the Command, Comptroller Peter Ntadi disclosed that the seized items include 1,827 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 174 sacks of Ammonium Sulphate & 86 sacks of Polypropylene, 1,312 loaves of Cannabis Sativa (17 sacks) and 42 kegs of PMS.
According to him, the ammonium was en route to a fertilizer blending company in Kirikiri when the consignment was attacked, and part of its content stolen.He explained that ammonium sulfate is not just a fertilizer component but also a possible ingredient for explosives, hence the critical nature of the interception.
He said the infrastructural projects include; an enlarged jetty capable of accommodating six patrol boats simultaneously, new quarter guard facilities, and enhanced security infrastructure around the Command premises.
He added that the jetty which was previously in a dilapidated state has been reconstructed to international standards to ensure safer and more efficient boat operations.
He disclosed that the Command has commenced the rebuilding of its flood-prone outstations, raising their foundations five feet above water level to ensure safety and operational continuity during heavy rains.
“My men were able to recover 157 stolen bags. You ask yourself, why would anyone want to steal ammonium sulfate if they don’t have a fertilizer blending plant? This is a matter of national security and it is under investigation.We have escalated the matter to the National Security Adviser for further investigation.”
“When I assumed office, this facility was almost overrun by hoodlums. We had to secure the premises, build new security structures, and install a symbolic anchor to reflect our maritime identity.Before now, entering or exiting boats was risky. Today, we can berth six boats at once and deploy swiftly in response to maritime threats.”
He thanked Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his leadership and support, stressing that Western Marine Command is now better positioned to deliver on its mandate of safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters.
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