… Cites Collaboration With NDLEA, NAFDAC, NSA
… Ogun Comptroller Hails CG Adeniyi, Reveals N15.1bn Revenue Generated In Q1
Daud Olatunji
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has revealed that the agency has intercepted and seized over 200 containers of illicit drugs across the country, following a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation involving multiple federal agencies.
Adeniyi made this known during an official visit to the Ogun II Command of the NCS in Abeokuta, where he highlighted collaboration and intelligence sharing as the cornerstone of the breakthrough.
“Let me give you assurance that one of my cardinal programme anchors is collaboration,” the CG declared. “We can get a lot of things done when we collaborate with each other.”
He explained that prior to the clampdown, the Customs Service, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) were operating in silos, despite having intersecting mandates.
“When Customs declared a state of emergency on importation of illicit drugs, I sought the support of NDLEA and NAFDAC,” Adeniyi said.
“Since then, we’ve received regular intelligence briefings, and we conducted joint operations. This has led to the seizure of over 200 containers.”
According to him, these operations were carried out under the coordination of the Office of the National Security Adviser to ensure that the seized drugs were completely destroyed before they could re-enter the country through the borders or reach criminal networks.
The Customs boss said the service had implemented a grassroots intelligence-gathering approach by building relationships with border communities.
“All our border commands have been encouraged to relate with community members. They know the terrain and offer superior intelligence,” he said. “We live among them and update them; in return, they provide invaluable support.”
In addressing transnational trade, Adeniyi also shared that in his second week in office, he travelled to the Republic of Benin to initiate collaborative platforms for managing transit goods and border operations.
“We exchange information and intelligence with them. Right now, we’re piloting a joint platform for processing goods at the Seme border using advanced technology,” he revealed.
“Once successful, it will be deployed across all border points. The Nigeria and Benin Customs are fast becoming models in border management.”
Excise Duty Controversy, Economic Strategy
On the subject of excise duty on carbonated drinks, which was suspended following a court ruling, the CG clarified the Customs’ position.
“We’re not seeing the loss as absolute. Our total excise revenue stood at N6 trillion in 2024, and we aimed to grow revenue from tobacco and alcohol to 5%.
“The carbonated drinks suspension cost us about 3% of this, but we want businesses to survive and retain jobs,” Adeniyi noted.
He further stated that Customs has challenged the ruling in an appellate court and will await legal clarity before taking further steps.
“There’s a global movement to control the consumption of sugary drinks. Nigeria is part of that framework. Until the appeal is determined, we will continue to suspend collection on carbonated drinks,” he said.
...Ogun State: The New Customs Hub
Describing Ogun State as a strategic economic gateway, the CG announced plans to relocate two major Customs service infrastructures to the state.
“Ogun has critical border points like Idi-Iroko and is close to Lagos. We are relocating two major service operations and training activities to the state,” he said. “This will deepen the partnership with the Ogun State Government, and the people of Ogun will be the ultimate beneficiaries.”
The Comptroller-General expressed satisfaction with the progress of Customs infrastructure projects in the state, especially in Iperu, where projects are near completion and expected to be commissioned by the President by year-end.
“These capital projects are funded from the 7% cost of collection that Customs is allowed to retain,” he explained. “All our capital projects come from this; the rest of our generated revenue goes to the federation account.”
Adeniyi also used the visit to assure officers of improved welfare, including career progression, accommodation, and timely payment of allowances, stating that officer motivation is key to achieving the service’s core mandate.
“We will do more, subject to the resources at our disposal,” he pledged.
… Ogun Comptroller Hails CG Adeniyi, Reveals N15.1bn Revenue Generater In Q1
Earlier,the Customs Area Controller of Ogun II Command, Comptroller Bisi Alade, has rolled out the achievements of the command under his leadership, while welcoming the Comptroller-General of Customs to Abeokuta, Ogun State.
In his welcome speech, Alade described Adeniyi’s visit as a strong statement of commitment to professionalism, discipline, and accountability in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), noting that the CG’s reforms had positively impacted all commands, including Ogun II.
“Ogun II Command has continued to uphold the Service’s core mandate through discipline, integrity and selfless service,” Alade said. “Your leadership has transformed the Service, and we are proud beneficiaries.”
Highlighting the command’s structure, Alade said Ogun II oversees 67 excise factories, three Free Trade Zones (FTZs), and a bonded terminal, making it a critical hub for trade and revenue generation in the country.
A major focus of his address was the financial performance of the Command.
According to him, the Command recorded a total revenue collection of N15.19 billion between January and April 2025 — a 40% increase from the N9.16 billion generated in the same period last year.
The revenue breakdown revealed N8.33 billion from excise duty, N7.16 billion from the Free Trade Zones, and N1.49 billion from the bonded terminal. Monthly collections peaked in April with N4.26 billion.
Alade noted that the revenue figure excluded N5.21 billion collected at the Flour Mill Free Trade Zone, which is yet to be transferred from the Lekki Free Trade Zone Command. “We have reached an agreement to credit it to Ogun II Command,” he assured.
Among recent developments, Alade disclosed that an illegal factory had been discovered and brought under excise control.
He attributed the command’s success to improved intelligence gathering, stronger stakeholder engagement, and a revitalized monitoring unit.
He also highlighted Ogun II Command’s new involvement in supervising the Sagamu Cargo Airport and the Papalanto Dry Port — projects recently flagged off by Governor Dapo Abiodun.
Despite the success, Alade listed several challenges: lack of operational vehicles, insufficient infrastructure, delays in project execution, and the need for solar power and laboratory equipment for the clinic.
He expressed gratitude to the CGC for his leadership, calling the visit a morale booster to officers and men of the command.
'
'
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
