The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, has announced a renewed commitment to tackling smuggling through intelligence-driven operations. The unit also issued a strong warning to importers and clearing agents against false declarations, stressing the importance of transparency in ensuring smooth trade facilitation.
Mohammed Shuaibu, the Customs Area Controller in charge of the unit, made these remarks on Thursday during a meeting with members of the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN) in Ikeja, Lagos.
Shuaibu explained that the unit will focus on intelligence-led operations, moving away from the traditional practice of frequently stopping containers along highways. Instead, the unit plans to focus on strategically targeted interventions based on reliable intelligence.
“Rather than stopping containers at random, we will be focusing on intelligence-driven operations. Our goal is to ensure that we target illegal items based on specific, credible information. This will not only streamline the process but also enhance efficiency,” Shuaibu stated. He added that the aim is to eradicate unnecessary checkpoints and stop roving patrols, ensuring that officers are deployed only where necessary.
Shuaibu further urged importers and clearing agents to be honest and accurate in their declarations. He emphasized that any deviation from transparency would result in customs officers taking action based on intelligence gathered.
“If you see our officers at a particular location, it’s because of information we’ve received and are acting upon. The presence of our officers is directly tied to the need to address inaccuracies in declarations,” Shuaibu explained.
The Customs Area Controller assured that the unit will continue to build on its previous successes and collaborate with various stakeholders to facilitate legitimate trade. One of the recent partnerships included a joint operation with the Nigerian Army.
In his remarks, Moses Ebosele, President of SCAN, commended the unit for its continued efforts to protect Nigeria’s economy from illicit trade activities, underscoring the importance of such initiatives in safeguarding national interests.
With this strategic shift towards intelligence-based operations, the NCS aims to enhance its role in ensuring a more effective and efficient trade environment while protecting the nation’s borders from smuggling.
