NCS highlights anti-smuggling success during legislative visit

Muritala Muhammed Airport, Lagos – April 9, 2025 – The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at Muritala Muhammed Airport Command (MMAC) showcased its anti-smuggling achievements and revenue milestones during an oversight visit by the House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise.

Led by Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide, the delegation reviewed operational strides and challenges.

In his welcome address, Comptroller Michael Awe, Customs Area Controller, thanked the committee for its sustained support. He stressed, “Your visit reinforces collaborative efforts to enhance border security, revenue collection, and trade efficiency.” Awe underscored the NCS’s alignment with national security goals through robust policy frameworks.

Notably, the MMAC intercepted illicit goods worth ₦10.6 billion in 2024, including 55 concealed semi-automatic shotguns disguised as shower faucets. Additionally, authorities seized military gear and narcotics, marking critical victories against transnational crime. The command also partnered with the Wildlife Justice Commission, arresting five suspects and confiscating 3,765 kg of pangolin scales valued at ₦772.3 million. “Interagency collaboration remains pivotal to our success,” Awe affirmed.

Financially, the MMAC generated ₦45.7 billion in Q1 2025, surpassing 2024’s ₦45.2 billion. Despite progress, Awe cited persistent hurdles: erratic network connectivity, insufficient inspection tools, outdated machinery, and inadequate infrastructure. He urged legislative backing to modernize operations and sustain momentum.

Responding, Hon. Abejide applauded the NCS’s transparency but clarified media inaccuracies. “Reports falsely claimed we sought to extend the Comptroller General’s tenure. We made no such proposal,” he stated. Abejide reiterated the committee’s dedication to advancing customs reforms and streamlining parliamentary collaboration.

As Nigeria confronts evolving smuggling tactics, the MMAC’s vigilance underscores its role in safeguarding economic and national security. The visit highlighted both achievements and unresolved gaps, stressing the need for continued investment in technology and intergovernmental synergy.

Looking ahead, the NCS aims to expand intelligence networks, upgrade surveillance systems, and foster stakeholder engagement. Comptroller Awe emphasized, “Proactive strategies will curb illicit trade while accelerating legitimate commerce.” Legislative support remains vital to addressing systemic bottlenecks and achieving long-term operational resilience.

Ultimately, the MMAC’s efforts reflect broader national priorities: combating organized crime, optimizing revenue streams, and fortifying border integrity. Through sustained partnerships and innovation, the NCS strives to balance enforcement with trade facilitation, ensuring Nigeria’s prosperity in a dynamic global landscape.