The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has outlined its strategies to suppress smuggling activities as the yuletide season approaches, a period often marked by increased attempts to bring contraband into the country.
Speaking exclusively to Shipping Position Daily, Chief Superintendent of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada emphasized the Service’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s borders and safeguarding public interest during this critical period.
Maiwada disclosed that while some of the strategies being implemented remain covert for operational reasons, the Service is relying heavily on intelligence-driven operations to ensure effective interception of illicit goods. He explained that intelligence is guiding most of their activities, allowing for targeted operations that minimize unnecessary visibility on major roads. This approach, he said, would help thwart smuggling networks while reducing disruptions to legitimate trade and movement.
He further noted that the NCS is employing advanced technologies to enhance its anti-smuggling capabilities.
He said a key initiative is the use of geospatial intelligence, which leverages remote sensing and satellite imagery to monitor and detect illegal movements of goods. According to Maiwada, the geospatial intelligence unit has been strengthened to support the Service’s efforts, marking a significant shift towards technology-driven operations aimed at suppressing smuggling activities.
According to him, while enforcement remains a priority, the NCS is also engaging in public sensitization campaigns to educate Nigerians on the dangers of smuggling and the importance of compliance with customs regulations. Maiwada explained that this is part of the Service’s persuasive strategy to involve communities and stakeholders in the fight against smuggling.
He noted that smuggling poses serious risks to public health and security, citing examples of recent interceptions of prohibited drugs like tramadol, Indian hemp, and other substances that could have had devastating consequences if they had entered the local market.
Maiwada stressed that the NCS is not just focused on stopping harmful imports but is also working to protect local industries and ensure food security. He said the Service’s efforts are aimed at preventing the influx of illegal goods that could undermine investments in agriculture and manufacturing, adding that anti-smuggling operations are critical to fostering a stable and competitive economic environment.
Despite the challenges posed by the yuletide season, Maiwada assured that the NCS is fully- prepared to address the expected surge in smuggling attempts. He noted that the Service has empowered its Federal Operations Units, described as the second layer of defence, to strategically position officers for enhanced interception of illicit goods.
He also revealed that checkpoints will be scaled down to reduce visibility and improve operational efficiency, with officers relying on intelligence and advanced monitoring systems to combat smuggling effectively.
In addition to enforcement, he said the NCS remains vigilant at major points of entry such as seaports and airports, where efforts to prevent revenue leakages are being intensified. Maiwada stated that while the Service cannot completely eradicate smuggling, it is determined to suppress it to the barest minimum, ensuring that only legitimate goods make it into the country.
The Customs spokesperson acknowledged that the yuletide season traditionally presents unique challenges, as the demand for goods often drives smugglers to devise more sophisticated methods. However, he expressed confidence in the Service’s readiness to meet these challenges, emphasizing that its multi-faceted approach combining enforcement, technology, and public engagement will be effective in safeguarding the nation.
He concluded by calling on Nigerians to support the NCS in its anti-smuggling efforts by refraining from being accomplices to illegal activities and reporting suspicious movements to the appropriate authorities. According to him, the collective effort of the public and the Service will not only protect lives and investments but also ensure a more secure and prosperous holiday season for all.
