By Peace Udugba
Adeniyi warns against using Nigerian ports to move security-sensitive equipment and harmful products into the country
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted several consignments of prohibited and potentially harmful goods at the nation’s ports, including 108 high-definition dual-camera drones, 1,282 bales of used clothing and five containers loaded with expired products.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, said the seizures underscored the Service’s determination to prevent Nigerian ports from being exploited by individuals and groups whose activities could threaten national security and public safety.
Adeniyi disclosed that the 108 high-definition dual-camera drones were intercepted during ongoing enforcement operations.
He stressed that although drones had legitimate commercial, industrial and other applications, security-sensitive equipment must be imported with the appropriate approvals, end-user certificates and other required documentation.
“Our ports will not be a route through which capability reaches those who are working against the security of this country,” Adeniyi said.
The Customs Service also intercepted 1,282 bales of used clothing packed in three separate containers.
In addition, five other containers were discovered to contain expired products, including tomato ketchup, antiseptic liquid, vaginal tablets and disposable nappies.
Adeniyi warned that the importation and distribution of expired products posed a serious public-health risk, particularly to unsuspecting consumers who might purchase and use them without knowing that they were no longer fit for consumption or use.
The Comptroller-General assured legitimate traders that the Service remained committed to facilitating lawful commerce while strengthening its scrutiny of consignments, transactions and operators considered to present identifiable risks.
He advised importers who were uncertain about the classification, valuation or origin of their goods to make use of the Customs Advance Ruling mechanism before shipment.
According to him, obtaining advance rulings can help importers clarify critical customs requirements and reduce uncertainty before their consignments arrive at Nigerian ports.
Adeniyi also encouraged compliant businesses to enrol in the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, which offers eligible traders more predictable clearance processes and fewer interventions where risk assessments permit.
He commended officers of the Apapa Area Command and partner agencies for their vigilance, cooperation and commitment to protecting the integrity of the country’s borders.
Adeniyi reiterated that the NCS would continue to prevent Nigerian ports from being used as channels for narcotics, controlled drugs, security-sensitive equipment and other prohibited or harmful goods.
