By Nworisa Michael
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kwara Area Command, has recorded significant enforcement successes against smuggling activities, less than one month after the assumption of office by the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC) Naeem Ogundeyi.
The seizures were formally presented during a press briefing held in Ilorin on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, where DC Ogundeyi briefed journalists and stakeholders on the Command’s recent operational outcomes.
Speaking at the briefing, the Acting Area Controller expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and the Service’s management team for the confidence placed in him. He noted that the early achievements reflect the Command’s renewed commitment to its statutory responsibilities.
According to DC Ogundeyi, the Kwara Area Command has adopted a strict operational strategy rooted in professionalism, intelligence-driven enforcement, and zero tolerance for compromise since he assumed office.
“These achievements demonstrate the unwavering resolve of our officers and men in revenue generation, suppression of smuggling, and facilitation of legitimate trade, in line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023,” he said.
He disclosed that the seizures were made through sustained patrols and credible intelligence across key routes within the Command’s area of responsibility. Items intercepted include 389 bales of second-hand clothing and 108 sacks of used bags along the Ogbomosho Iyankorin Expressway.
The Command also seized 6,500 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from multiple patrol bases along the Bukuro border axis, as well as 450 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each) intercepted along the Okuta border axis.
In addition, three vehicles a new 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser VX, a new 2025 Lexus LX 600 intercepted around the Bode Saadu area, and a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 (2016 model) intercepted along the Okuta axiswere impounded. A total of 170 pieces of used tyres were also seized along the Lagos–Jebba Expressway. All seized vehicles are currently under detention pending further investigation.
DC Ogundeyi revealed that the combined Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seizures is estimated at ₦1.21 billion, stressing that the Command will not tolerate smuggling activities under his leadership.
He commended officers and men of the Command for their dedication and professionalism, noting that their resilience under challenging conditions contributed significantly to the successes recorded.
The Acting Area Controller issued a strong warning to smugglers and economic saboteurs, declaring that the Kwara Area Command is no longer a safe route for illegal trade. He assured that all lawful measures would continue to be deployed to protect the nation’s economy.
DC Ogundeyi also appealed to stakeholders and members of the public to support the Nigeria Customs Service by providing timely and credible intelligence, describing the Service as a partner in national development rather than an adversary.
He concluded by assuring that the Command would sustain its enforcement momentum while upholding professionalism, respect for human rights, and adherence to the rule of law in all operations.