Ogun Customs Records 266% Surge in Exports, Intensifies Crackdown on Smuggling
Ogun Customs Records 266% Surge in Exports, Intensifies Crackdown on Smuggling
Ogun Customs Records 266% Surge in Exports, Intensifies Crackdown on Smuggling
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has recorded a significant 266 per cent increase in export value in March 2026, signalling improved trade facilitation and strengthened anti-smuggling operations along the Idiroko border corridor.
ALSO READ: Controversy as Pete Hegseth Accused of Blocking Promotions of Black, Female U.S. Military Officers
According to an official statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Chado Zakari, on behalf of the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, export volume rose to 277.8 metric tonnes with a Free on Board (FOB) value of $383,100 in March 2026. This marks a sharp increase from 20 metric tonnes valued at $104,600 recorded in the same period in 2025.
The Command attributed the impressive growth to enhanced operational efficiency, tighter border surveillance, and intelligence-driven enforcement strategies, which have curtailed illegal trade while promoting legitimate export activities.
Speaking on the development, Afeni noted that the Command’s dual approach of facilitating trade and enforcing regulations has created a more enabling environment for exporters. He added that sustained anti-smuggling operations have improved the integrity of the export system and boosted confidence among legitimate traders operating within the corridor.
As part of its enforcement efforts, the Command intercepted 1,202 kegs of smuggled vegetable oil valued at ₦120.2 million during two separate operations in March 2026. The seizures follow earlier interceptions of 2,539 kegs in March and 2,090 kegs in December 2025.
Afeni explained that removing illicit goods from circulation helps protect local industries from unfair competition and supports job creation within the domestic economy.
In a related development, the Command handed over 285 sacks of mica stones valued at ₦104.7 million to the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development after intercepting the minerals during an anti-smuggling operation.
The Acting Controller warned that the illegal export of solid minerals poses a serious threat to national revenue and economic stability, stressing the need for sustained inter-agency collaboration to combat the menace.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining export growth momentum while maintaining a firm stance against smuggling activities across all border points.
Ogun Customs Records 266% Surge in Exports, Intensifies Crackdown on Smuggling
