Ogun I Customs Command records major Seizures, surpasses 2024 revenue generation under Compt Otunla’s leadership

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has recorded another significant anti-smuggling breakthrough with the seizure of contraband items worth billions of naira in Duty Paid Value (DPV). The operation, executed under the leadership of Comptroller James Otunla, underscores the Command’s resolve to protect Nigeria’s economy from illicit trade.

Speaking during the press briefing at the Idiroko Sentry on Thursday, 21st August, 2025, Comptroller Otunla stated that the Duty Paid Value of the seizures (₦1,401,531,923.95) reflected the Command’s consistent drive against economic sabotage.

Breakdown of Seizures

1. 4,424 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg) which is over 7 truckloads.
2. Cannabis Sativa, commonly known as marijuana – 50 sacks and 1,936 parcels of coconut size.
3. Used Pneumatic Tyres – 105 pieces.
4. Used Clothing – 21 bales and 3 sacks.
5. 6,400 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS)
6. Foreign-used vehicles (Tokunbo) – 3 units including a Rolls-Royce worth billions of Naira.

Comptroller Otunla stated further that “in addition to these anti-smuggling feats, the Command also sustained efforts in rvenue generation.

He said, “I am pleased to announce that in July 2025, Ogun I Area Command generated a total revenue of ₦45,054,191.00 which is higher than the ₦35,327,852.00 recorded in the corrresponding month of 2024.

“This represents a commendable increase of 27.4%. This remarkable growth is a reflection of our enhanced compliance drive, improved monitoring of border activities, and robust stakeholders engagement”.

As part of the briefing, Comptroller Otunla immediately handed over the large quantity of Cannabis Sativa commensurate with 50kg sacks and 1,936 parcels of coconut size to the Commander of the NDLEA, Idiroko Special Command signifying the Customs Service’ consistent inter-agency collaboration framework.

Comptroller Otunla Commends Officers, Warns Smugglers

Comptroller Otunla commended the gallant officers of the Ogun I Command for their commitment to the anti-smuggling mandate despite the risks involved in border operations.

He reiterated the Command’s readiness to sustain the tempo of enforcement, warning economic saboteurs that “the border is no longer safe for smugglers.”

Community Engagement and Trade Facilitation

While stressing the enforcement drive, the Customs Area Controller reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to legitimate trade facilitation in Ogun State. He urged border communities to cooperate with Customs by providing credible intelligence that will aid the fight against smuggling as he commended the supportive and cooperating of sister security agencies, as well all stakeholders in the Command.

Conclusion

The latest seizures by the Ogun I Customs Command highlight the continued success of Comptroller Otunla’s anti-smuggling strategy, balancing enforcement with stakeholder engagement to safeguard Nigeria’s economy.