The Kwara State Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a massive haul of prohibited and improperly imported goods valued at over N1.2 billion in just one month. The seizures followed a recent change in the command's leadership, signaling a new era of aggressive enforcement against economic sabotage.
Leadership and Strategy Yield Results
Acting Area Controller, Comptroller Najeem Akanmu Ogundeyi, revealed the details at a press briefing in Ilorin on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. Ogundeyi, who recently assumed office, attributed the success to a strict operational shift. He stated that the command is now fully guided by the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, intelligence-driven operations, and a renewed culture of professionalism among officers.
"Upon my assumption, I made it clear that this command would operate strictly in line with the Customs Act 2023, guided by professionalism, intelligence-led enforcement and zero tolerance for compromise. I am pleased to report that these directives are already yielding positive results," Ogundeyi declared.
Details of the Major Seizures
The N1.2 billion worth of seizures were made through sustained patrols and credible intelligence across strategic routes and border areas within Kwara State. The intercepted items include:
- 389 bales of second-hand clothing and 108 sacks of used bags, seized around the Ogbomosho–Eyenkorin Expressway in the early hours of the morning.
- 6,500 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) intercepted at various patrol bases along border lines in the Bukuro axis.
- 450 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each) seized in the Okuta axis.
- 170 pieces of used tyres intercepted along the Lagos–Jebba Expressway.
In a significant move, the command also impounded three high-value vehicles:
- A new 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser VX.
- A new 2025 Lexus LX 600.
- A 2016 Mercedes Benz GLE 350.
The Toyota and Lexus were intercepted around the Bode Saadu area, while the Mercedes Benz was seized around the Okuta axis. Ogundeyi confirmed that all vehicles are currently under detention for further investigation.
A Stern Warning to Smugglers
Comptroller Ogundeyi issued a strong warning, stating that smuggling activities will not be tolerated under his watch. He emphasized that anyone involved in illegal trade would face the full wrath of the law. "Kwara State is no longer a safe route for smugglers," he asserted, assuring the public that the command would deploy all lawful means to protect the nation's economy and ensure compliance with Customs laws.
He commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the service's management for their support. Ogundeyi also praised the officers and men of the Kwara Command for their resilience and dedication, often under challenging conditions, which made the achievements possible.
The acting controller appealed to the public and stakeholders to support Customs operations by providing timely and credible information, reiterating that the service remains a committed partner in national development. He pledged to sustain the current enforcement momentum while upholding the core values of professionalism, transparency, and respect for human rights.
