The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Command, has intercepted five trailer loads of smuggled goods, including foreign parboiled rice and cannabis, along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor between July 1 and July 19, 2025.
Announcing the development, the Seme Area Controller, Dr. Ben Oramalugo, revealed that the trucks were found to contain 2,800 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice and 250 bales of second-hand clothing. The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the rice and the trucks used for smuggling is estimated at ₦919.5 million.
Other notable seizures within the same period include 898 parcels of Cannabis Sativa (marijuana), 1,319 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, 40 bags of sugar, 64 bags of flour, 50 cartons of tomato ketchup, one boat with engine, 20 bales of second-hand clothing, and four bales of used shoes.
The total DPV of all seized items during the period stands at ₦1.27 billion.
Dr. Oramalugo attributed the success to the vigilance and dedication of the Command’s officers, as well as effective collaboration with sister security agencies, particularly the Nigerian military.
He emphasized the Federal Government’s continued ban on rice importation through land borders, describing it as a strategic move to protect local farmers and millers.
“Nigeria is the leading rice producer in Africa, with over 8 million metric tonnes annually. Yet, local mills face challenges due to low patronage,” he noted.
Condemning the activities of smugglers, he warned that the Seme Area Command would never serve as a safe haven for illegal trade. “These seizures serve as a warning that we remain resolute and fully equipped to enforce fiscal policies,” he declared.
In line with inter-agency cooperation, the seized cannabis was handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), led by Exhibit Officer Idris Ibrahim Mohammed, for investigation and further action.
Meanwhile, the Command generated ₦1.59 billion in revenue between May and June 2025, a feat the Controller credited to blocked revenue leakages and strict enforcement.
Dr. Oramalugo commended his officers for their dedication to duty in curbing smuggling and boosting government revenue.
