Customs intercepts ‘illicit goods worth N31bn’ in Rivers

Bashir Adeniyi, comptroller-general of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has declared a state of emergency at Onne Port in Rivers state over “national security breaches”.

The comptroller-general added that officers of Area 11 Command in Onne intercepted “12 forty-foot containers loaded with illicit goods, valued at over N31 billion”.

Adeniyi spoke at a press conference on Wednesday at the command’s Rivers warehouse.

He said recent intelligence revealed “an alarming increase” in the use of Onne Port for the importation of dangerous and illegal goods.

He added that the smugglers’ activities are “an attempt to sabotage trade facilitation efforts, posing a threat to national security and public health”.

“Our focus has always been on promoting initiatives that support trade facilitation and economic development. Unfortunately, criminal elements in the international supply chain are exploiting our pro-trade stance to commit serious security breaches,” he said.

“The attempt to challenge us by smuggling dangerous cargo through this port has led to a declaration of a state of emergency at Onne Port.

“Following the recent seizure of a large cache of arms, it is concerning that such illicit activities continue.

“We are here today to showcase significant seizures made by the dedicated officers of Area 11 Command.

“On display are 12 containers of illegal goods intercepted through intelligence gathering, inter-agency collaboration, and thorough physical inspections.

“One 40-foot container held 4,800 pairs of military/paramilitary camouflage rain boots and 67,320 pairs of rubber footwear, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N923,040,000.

‘Three containers held 562,600 bottles of 100ml codeine cough syrup and 3,150 chilly cutters, with a DPV of N4,716,573,846.

“Another three containers contained 380,000 bottles of codeine cough syrup, 24,480,000 tablets of Royal Tramadol Hydrochloride, 5,350,000 tablets of Tapentadol and Carisoprodol, and other items, valued at N17,432,506,000.

“Lastly, five containers carried 892,400 bottles of codeine cough syrup, 1,300,000 Really Extra Diclofenac tablets, 7,250,000 Trodol Benzhexol tablets, among others, with a DPV of N8,128,568,295.90.

“These seizures bring the total value of the 12 containers to N31,200,688,142.”

Adeniyi said the interceptions showcased “the command’s vigilance and the effectiveness of its intelligence network, strengthened by collaboration with other security agencies”.

He appealed to the public to assist the service with information. 

He added that Onne Port would undergo emergency protocols for the next three months.

“This is not just a customs problem — it is a national security issue that concerns every Nigerian,” he said.

“We are calling on all patriotic citizens to assist us by providing intelligence about these illegal activities. Even the smallest piece of information could be key in averting a potential disaster.

“For the next three months, we will thoroughly inspect all suspicious containers. If owners do not come forward, we will open these containers to verify their contents. This temporary measure is necessary to clean up the port.

“The illegal pharmaceuticals, including codeine and tramadol, will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) under our Memorandum of Understanding, while the other items will be dealt with as per legal frameworks.

“I want to assure the business community that this measure is not intended to hinder legitimate trade. Our aim is to create a safer, more secure environment for genuine business activities to thrive.

“Under my leadership, the Nigeria Customs Service will spare no effort in protecting Nigerians’ health and safety. We will continue to strengthen our intelligence networks, enhance our partnerships, and ensure that those who endanger the nation face the full force of the law.

“To those still engaging in illegal trade, be warned: the Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with other security agencies, will enforce the law without hesitation.

“We will remain a strong force in the fight against smuggling and the illegal importation of harmful goods, ensuring Nigeria remains a safe place for all.”

Adeniyi also commended officers for “their tireless efforts in protecting the nation”.

He noted that their actions complied with customs regulations regarding concealment, false declarations, and prohibited imports.