In a bold response to escalating national security threats, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has seized ₦31.2 billion worth of illicit goods at Onne Port, sparking a declaration of a state of emergency at the port. The seizures, made by the vigilant officers of the Area 2 Command, were announced by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, during a press conference held in September 2024.
Addressing a gathering of press members, stakeholders, and officers, the Comptroller-General emphasized the critical need to safeguard Nigeria’s national security in the face of repeated incidents at Onne Port. “Today marks another significant step in our ongoing battle to secure Nigeria’s borders and protect our citizens from the dangers posed by illegal importations,” Adeniyi stated.
The seizures, which include a disturbing array of dangerous items, underline the growing trend of Onne Port being used as a conduit for illicit cargo. Among the confiscated items are 4,800 pairs of military camouflage boots, 562,600 bottles of cough syrup with codeine, and millions of tablets of various controlled substances, including Tramadol and Tapentadol, all with a combined Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over ₦31.2 billion.
“These attempts to test our resolve through the importation of dangerous cargo necessitate immediate and decisive action. It is disheartening that despite previous seizures, these criminal elements continue their illegal activities. Hence, we are compelled to declare a state of emergency at Onne Port,” Adeniyi declared.
The Comptroller-General detailed the comprehensive measures being put in place to tackle this menace, including the implementation of emergency protocols for the next three months. During this period, all suspected containers will be subject to rigorous examination. Any containers left unclaimed will be opened for verification, ensuring that no harmful goods slip through the cracks.
“This is not just a Customs issue; it is a national security concern that impacts every Nigerian,” Adeniyi stressed, calling on all patriotic citizens to support the NCS by providing intelligence on those behind these illicit activities. “Your information, no matter how small, could be the key to preventing a potential catastrophe.”
The Comptroller-General also reassured the legitimate business community that these measures are not intended to disrupt lawful trade but to create a safer environment for genuine business activities to thrive. He affirmed the NCS’s commitment to processing lawful shipments as quickly and efficiently as possible during this critical period.
Acknowledging the relentless efforts of the Port Harcourt Area 2 Command, Adeniyi praised the officers for their dedication to duty and their unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria. “Your vigilance and commitment are commendable, and I want to assure you that your efforts do not go unnoticed,” he said.
The seized pharmaceuticals, including the cough syrup and Tramadol, will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for proper disposal, in accordance with the NCS’s Memorandum of Understanding. The other items will be dealt with under the legal frameworks governing customs operations.
As the NCS continues to intensify its operations, Adeniyi reaffirmed his commitment to leaving no stone unturned in the fight against smuggling and the illegal importation of harmful goods. “We will strengthen our intelligence networks, enhance our inter-agency collaborations, and ensure that those who seek to harm our nation face the full weight of the law,” he concluded.
The press conference ended with a strong message of assurance to all Nigerians: the Nigeria Customs Service will remain a formidable force in safeguarding the nation’s security and ensuring that Nigeria remains a safe place for all to thrive.
