The Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘C’, of the Nigeria Customs Service, on Wednesday, 26 February 2025, reiterated its commitment to tackling smuggling, particularly the illegal importation of used clothing and dangerous drugs such as Tramadol.
This follows the unit’s impressive record of 3,264 seizures between January and February 2025, amounting to a duty-paid value (DPV) of ₦735,972,000.
Speaking at a press briefing at the command’s headquarters in Owerri, Comptroller Michael Ugbagu stated:
“Intercepting these contraband goods aligns with the Customs Service’s core mandate to prevent revenue leakages, facilitate trade, and combat smuggling activities.”
He revealed that the seized goods included 272 bales of used clothing, 13 bales of used shoes, 11 bales of used bags, 1,230 sachets of Tramadol, and 289 packs of Tramadol capsules, along with other prohibited items such as cannabis sativa, used tyres, and illegally imported food products.
Comptroller Ugbagu highlighted the dangers posed by smuggling used clothing, stressing that it undermines Nigeria’s local textile industry and deprives hardworking citizens of employment opportunities. He also warned of the health risks associated with second-hand clothing.
He urged the public to refrain from patronising second-hand clothing and support local manufacturers.
Additionally, he raised concerns about the health risks linked to Tramadol abuse, noting that it can cause drowsiness, headaches, nausea, low blood pressure, and anxiety. He stated that the seized cannabis sativa and Tramadol would be handed over to the relevant government agencies for appropriate action.
Comptroller Ugbagu commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for providing the unit with logistical support and incentives, which have significantly enhanced its operations.
He further assured the public that Customs remains resolute in its fight against smuggling through intelligence gathering, inter-agency collaboration, and enhanced surveillance across land borders, seaports, and airports.
