The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the seizures of 1,043 bags (50kg) of rice, 233 kegs (25 litres) of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly called petrol, among other items within the last two weeks, amounting to ₦165,387,000 million.
The seizures, combined with other items intercepted by the Command in February 2025, resulted in a total revenue generation of ₦2,048,487,969 billion.
The Controller of the Command, Comptroller Joseph Olugbuyi Adelaja disclosed this during his maiden press briefing on the Command’s seizures and revenue generated at its headquarters in Ibadan, Oyo State on Friday.
His words: “I officially assumed office as the Customs Area Controller of Oyo/Osun Area Command on 7th February 2025. Since taking over from my predecessor, Comptroller Dr. Ben Oramalugo, the Command has remained committed to its core mandates of revenue collection and anti-smuggling operations.
“These remarkable achievements have been made possible through the unwavering dedication, professionalism, and cooperation of the officers and men of the Command. I am highly impressed by their commitment and the level of support they have extended, which has significantly contributed to the successes recorded so far, despite the challenging economic downturn facing the nation.
“Under my leadership, the Command was able to collect the sum of ₦2,048,487,969.00 (Two billion and forty-eight million, four hundred and eight seven thousand nine hundred and sixty-nine naira only) as revenue covering the period of 1 February to 27 February 2025.”
Comptroller Adelaja explained that the revenue collected reflects the diligence and efficiency of the Command’s officers and men in ensuring compliance with extant Customs laws and policies.
He disclosed that the Command has significantly reduced tax evasion through the adoption of advanced technology, such as the deployment of improved data analytics, which has enabled the Command to monitor trade flows and identify discrepancies effectively.
The Comptroller noted that one of the core mandates of the NCS is the suppression of smuggling, which undermines national security and economic growth.
“The Oyo/Osun Area Command has made significant strides in curbing smuggling activities, safeguarding the nation’s economy, and protecting local industries from the harmful effects of illicit trade. Within 2 weeks of my assumption of duty, the Command has intercepted and seized several high-profile smuggling consignments, including the seizure of foreign rice, second-hand clothing, Premium Motor Spirit and used tyres.
“These seizures have a duty paid valued of ₦165,387,000.00k (One and sixty-five million, Three hundred and eighty-seven thousand naira only). The interception and seizure of these prohibited and uncustomed items have prevented the illegal inflow of products that undermine local industries, particularly rice farmers and manufacturers in the region. On this note, the interception of prohibited foreign parboiled rice has led to the increase in production and consumption of the local rice in Oyo and Osun State respectively,” he remarked.
Adelaja disclosed that the Command has intensified its surveillance of key entry points and transit routes within the Oyo/Osun region through a combination of physical inspections, surveillance technology, and intelligence sharing with other security agencies.
He stated that the Command’s anti-smuggling operations have been strengthened through increased collaboration with other security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Department of State Services (DSS), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS).
“These partnerships have facilitated the exchange of intelligence and allowed the joint operations to dismantle smuggling networks operating in the region. The Command will further prioritize the sensitization of the members of the public to raise awareness about the negative impact of smuggling on the economy and the well-being of the nation. Through media engagements and outreach programs, the Command would empower the local communities with the basic knowledge and tools required to report smuggling activities.
“This initiative would equip the members of the public about the activities of the Nigeria Customs Service in order to support the fight against illegal trade. The economic downturn facing Nigeria has created a number of challenges for the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly in the areas of revenue collection and the prevention of smuggling. The low level of importation, fluctuating exchange rates, and inflation have all contributed to the economic challenges being faced,” he stressed.
The Comptroller, however, said that the Command has responded strategically to these challenges, ensuring that it remains resolute on its mission.
He continued: “Despite the current economic constraints, the Oyo/Osun Area Command has demonstrated resilience and resourcefulness in adapting to the changing environment. Through efficient management of resources, improved coordination of officers, and strategic partnerships, the Command has mitigated the impact of the economic downturn.
“Furthermore, by recognizing the importance of a collaborative approach, the Command has also further prioritized the engagement with excise factories and other stakeholders to ensure the continuity of operations and a steady flow of revenue. This approach also focused on building a strong relationship with the stakeholders and to ensure that the Command maintain trust and cooperation even in this challenging time.”
The Oyo/Osun Customs boss mentioned that the Command has been transformed since he assumed office despite the challenges, citing the progress in its anti-smuggling operations and the revenue generated.
He expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and his management team for their efforts in ensuring that the officers and men of the Command are well equipped to perform their primary duties.
The Comptroller also thanked Oyo State Governor, Mr. Seyi Makinde for providing an enabling environment for officers and men of the Command to perform their duties within the state.
Adelaja equally affirmed the support, collaboration and cooperation of the traditional rulers, sister security agencies within the states and the media for its commitment and dissemination of information to the public.
He reiterated the Command’s commitment to contributing to the nation’s development, securing the borders, and ensuring that the NCS continues to play a pivotal role in the nation’s economic growth.
