By Peace Udugba -The Daily Torch Media
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’, has vowed to intensify its crackdown on smuggling and other economic crimes through strengthened collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
The Acting Controller of FOU Zone ‘A’, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, disclosed this during his maiden press briefing held in Ikeja, Lagos, on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
Afeni revealed that the Unit recorded 195 seizures arising from smuggling attempts across its area of responsibility in the South-West, underscoring its enforcement efforts against illegal trade and economic sabotage.
He said the Unit would deepen collaboration with relevant stakeholders through intelligence sharing, joint operations, capacity building and coordinated enforcement to dismantle criminal networks and strengthen border security.
The Unit reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s borders, securing communities and safeguarding the national economy against activities capable of undermining economic stability.
Afeni also urged stakeholders and members of the public to support the fight against smuggling by providing credible information on suspicious activities and promoting legitimate trade.
“Smuggling thrives where it is tolerated, protected or ignored. Every citizen has a role to play by reporting suspicious activities and supporting lawful trade,” the Unit stated.
He warned individuals and groups involved in economic sabotage and other illegal activities that the Unit would remain vigilant and sustain operations aimed at disrupting their networks.
“To economic saboteurs and unpatriotic individuals, our message is clear: the Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’, will remain vigilant. We will continue to disrupt your networks, intercept your consignments and ensure that the full weight of the law is applied where appropriate,” it warned.
The Unit expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD, and the management of the Nigeria Customs Service for the confidence reposed in its leadership.
It also commended officers of the Unit for their courage, professionalism and dedication to duty, noting that their contributions remained vital to the successful discharge of its responsibilities.
The Unit reiterated its resolve to sustain enforcement operations and strengthen cooperation with stakeholders in the collective effort to combat smuggling, protect Nigeria’s borders and defend the national economy.
