The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Port Harcourt II Command, has made significant progress in its enforcement efforts during the first quarter of 2025, seizing illicit goods valued at over N10 billion and reporting a substantial increase in revenue compared to the same period last year. These accomplishments were highlighted during a media briefing by the Command’s Area Controller, Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, on Wednesday, April 16, 2025.
In his address, Comptroller Babandede emphasized the critical role of the NCS in supporting the nation’s economic development and security. He noted that the Service’s efforts are instrumental in enforcing trade laws, ensuring compliance, and protecting the nation from the influx of illicit goods. Babandede stressed that importing prohibited goods, especially illicit drugs, poses significant risks to public safety, health, and society at large.
Babandede detailed the Command’s impressive seizures between January and March 2025, including 20 containers containing items such as 158,400 bottles of Codeine Syrup, used clothing, and illicit drugs like Pregabalin and Tamol-X tablets. The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of these seized goods amounted to N10,293,677,040.00.
“These seizures reflect the dedication, integrity, and patriotism of our officers, who are committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s security and public health,” Babandede said. “Their vigilance, meticulous checks, and professionalism have contributed to these remarkable results.”
In addition to the anti-smuggling efforts, the Command reported a significant revenue collection of N190,569,212,397.42 during the first quarter of 2025. This marks a notable increase from the N162,705,313,561.48 collected in the same period in 2024, representing a growth of 17.12%.
The Command also made significant strides in exports, with a total of 1.274 million metric tons of goods, predominantly agricultural products and solid minerals, exported during the first quarter. The total value of these exports was N2,345,268,122.
As part of its modernization efforts, the Command highlighted its adoption of the B’odogwu Unified Information Management System. This system has streamlined clearance procedures, improved operational efficiency, and contributed to better revenue collection. The Command also provided training to stakeholders on the system’s operation to ensure smoother trade processes.
In a demonstration of inter-agency collaboration, Comptroller Babandede handed over a 20ft container containing donkey skin to the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service for proper handling and compliance with export regulations.
Comptroller Babandede expressed his sincere gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the NCS management team for providing the necessary resources and a conducive work environment. He also thanked the officers and stakeholders for their continued support and cooperation.
“We remain committed to our role in contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth, security, and global trade compliance,” Babandede concluded.
The NCS Port Harcourt II Command continues to strengthen its position as a key player in Nigeria’s trade and security landscape, calling on stakeholders to maintain their cooperation in achieving the nation’s economic objectives.