By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kwara Area Command, has intensified efforts to curb smuggling and safeguard Nigeria’s local industries, intercepting illicit goods worth over ₦478 million in recent operations.
Speaking at a press briefing in Ilorin on 11 March 2026, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Najeem Ogundeyi, disclosed that the seized items included foreign rice, second-hand vehicles, used tyres, compressors, petroleum products, and illegally mined lithium ore. The total Duty Paid Value of the goods amounted to ₦478,171,315.
Ogundeyi explained that the operations are part of a broader strategy to protect national revenue, support local farmers, and promote legitimate trade. “Despite repeated warnings, some individuals continue to engage in illegal trade, but our officers remain vigilant. Every seizure sends a clear message that smuggling will not be tolerated in Kwara State,” he said.
He highlighted that the Federal Government’s restrictions on foreign parboiled rice are designed to encourage local production, create jobs, support farmers, and strengthen food security. Persistent illegal importation, he added, undermines these objectives and threatens domestic agriculture.
Details of the seizures include:
Five second-hand vehicles at Alapa Patrol Base and Bode Saadu axis
60 sacks, six jumbo sacks, and two bales of second-hand clothing
222 used compressors and 15 used tyres at Eiyenkorin area
44 bags of 50kg imported sugar along Bukuro and Bode Saadu axis
317 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) suspected for illegal smuggling
1,107 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice and nine vehicles transporting rice
120 sacks of illegally mined lithium ore in the Alapa/Banni area
On revenue generation, Ogundeyi revealed that excise activities remain the Command’s primary source of income, generating ₦2,527,531,290 during the period under review.
He commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and the management team for their continued support, noting that collaboration with other security agencies has strengthened enforcement efforts. He also praised the media for raising public awareness about the dangers of smuggling.
Ogundeyi urged the public to embrace legitimate trade, desist from smuggling, and support government initiatives aimed at protecting the national economy, boosting local industries, and ensuring sustainable development.
