The Acting Customs Area Controller of the command, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, disclosed this on Thursday during a press conference at the command’s headquarters in Idiroko, Ogun State.
Afeni said the seizures were the outcome of intelligence-led operations and enhanced collaboration with other security agencies aimed at curbing smuggling and protecting the nation’s economic interests.
According to him, the seized items included 1,204 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 3,893 parcels of cannabis weighing 1.878 tonnes, 428 pneumatic tyres, 8,675 litres of Premium Motor Spirit concealed in kegs, 24 bales of second-hand clothing, four sacks of used shoes and 500 litres of diesel.
The Customs boss said the seizures reflected the command’s determination to frustrate what he described as activities capable of undermining legitimate trade and Nigeria’s economy.
“Our relentless anti-smuggling drives have dealt severe blows to illicit trade networks operating across Ogun State. I make bold to say that Ogun I Command under my leadership, between August and September 2026, our officers intercepted substantial quantities of contraband, including foreign parboiled rice, petroleum products (PMS), premium used vehicles, narcotics, used clothing, and illegal wildlife/solid mineral.
He further announced the seizure of a 2026 Range Rover Sport Autobiography P530, which he valued at N417,011,982,000, describing the interception as one of the major highlights of the command’s recent operations.
Afeni said the command would continue to combine enforcement with trade facilitation, noting that compliant traders must be allowed to conduct legitimate businesses while sensitive goods would remain subject to strict regulatory oversight.
He added that the command had strengthened its collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and relevant environmental agencies to tackle cross-border crimes.
As part of the inter-agency cooperation, the Ogun I Area Command handed over 3,893 parcels of cannabis to the NDLEA Idiroko Special Command for further investigation.
Afeni also disclosed that the command had sustained engagements with traditional rulers, youth leaders and border community associations in order to improve trust and minimise tensions during enforcement operations.
He said the Customs Service was also contributing to community development and environmental initiatives, while personnel participated in inter-command athletic competitions in August and September, with the Ogun I Area Command emerging as champion in volleyball.
The Acting Controller commended officers and men of the command for their dedication and resilience, while acknowledging the support of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the management of the service.
Afeni warned smugglers and other operators of illegal border activities that the command would intensify its enforcement activities.
“To the perpetrators of economic sabotage and illegal border activities, our message remains unequivocal,Ogun I Command will continue to be a hostile zone for uncustomed goods and illicit trade. We remain resolute in safeguarding Nigeria's economic interests and national security”.
