The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘C’ Owerri, has intensified its anti-smuggling operations under the leadership of its newly appointed Controller, Comptroller Bishir Abdullahi Balogun. Within just one month of assuming office, the unit recorded massive seizures of contraband goods valued at over N1 billion, marking a significant stride in its enforcement efforts.

Addressing journalists during his maiden press briefing at the unit’s headquarters in Owerri on Thursday, April 17, 2025, Comptroller Balogun disclosed that the unit intercepted illicit goods with a total duty paid value (DPV) of N1,010,113,880. He added that N13,451,848 was also recovered through the issuance of Demand Notices (DN) within the same period.

Balogun, who officially took over leadership on March 20, 2025, described smuggling as a form of economic sabotage, warning that it poses serious threats to local industries and the wellbeing of citizens. He reaffirmed the unit’s commitment to suppressing smuggling and ensuring compliance with trade regulations across the zone.

Among the items seized during the intensified operations were 725 bales of second-hand clothing, 2,762 rolls of satin fabric (60 yards each), 2,589 used tyres, 233 sacks of 2kg foreign rice, 181 rolls of wall covering, 102 bottles of 75cl diesel, and various quantities of petroleum products including PMS and crude oil. Also intercepted were 25 bales of cannabis sativa, 3 cartons of red wine, a sack of used shoes, and five parcels of Canadian Loud.

Comptroller Balogun attributed the success to strategic intelligence, dedication of officers, and unwavering support from the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR. He lauded the unit’s personnel for their professionalism, diligence, and resolve to secure the nation’s entry points while blocking revenue leakages.

He also emphasized the importance of collaboration with other government agencies, noting that the seized cannabis sativa would be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further action.

While calling on traders and stakeholders to remain compliant with customs regulations, the controller reiterated the service’s readiness to tackle non-compliance and support the federal government’s economic agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He extended gratitude to the media for their role in advocacy and public sensitization, urging them to continue supporting the campaign against illicit trade. Balogun further appealed to Nigerians to provide actionable intelligence that would help safeguard the economy and enhance national security.