Oyo/Osun Customs Command Generates N2.04 Billion Revenue, Seizes Smuggled Goods Worth N165.3 Million
The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded impressive achievements in revenue collection and anti-smuggling operations, amassing N2,048,487,969.00 in revenue and seizing contraband worth N165,387,000.00 within the first 22 days of Comptroller Joseph Olugbuyi Adelaja’s tenure.
Speaking at his maiden press briefing held at the Command’s Operational Headquarters in Ibadan on 28 February 2025, Comptroller Adelaja reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to its core mandates of revenue generation and the suppression of smuggling.
He commended the officers and men of the Command for their dedication, which has significantly contributed to these successes despite Nigeria’s current economic downturn.
Since assuming office on 7 February 2025, Comptroller Adelaja has prioritised efficiency in revenue collection.
The Command generated N2.04 billion between 1 and 27 February 2025, reflecting the dedication of its personnel in ensuring compliance with extant customs laws.
He attributed this success to enhanced data analytics and technological adoption, which have improved trade monitoring and reduced tax evasion.
In line with the Nigeria Customs Service’s drive to curb smuggling, the Oyo/Osun Command has intensified operations, leading to significant seizures within two weeks of Comptroller Adelaja’s assumption of duty.
The intercepted contraband, valued at N165,387,000.00, includes: foreign rice, fairly-used tyres, PMS, pharmaceuticals, among others.
Comptroller Adelaja emphasised that the crackdown on foreign rice smuggling has boosted local rice production and consumption in Oyo and Osun States.
He noted that the seizure of used tyres, second-hand clothing, and illegally transported petroleum products aligns with the Service’s mandate to protect local industries and ensure public safety.
To further strengthen anti-smuggling operations, the Command has intensified surveillance of key entry points and transit routes within the region.
Through intelligence sharing and joint operations with the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Nigerian Immigration Service, the Command has dismantled smuggling networks and improved border security.
Recognising the critical role of public support in combating smuggling, the Command is set to launch awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the dangers of illicit trade.
Comptroller Adelaja revealed plans for media engagements and community outreach programmes to encourage locals to report smuggling activities.
Furthermore, the Command is deepening its collaboration with excise factories and stakeholders to maintain steady operations and revenue flow despite economic challenges.
“Our goal is to foster a strong relationship built on trust and cooperation, ensuring continuity in these trying times,” he stated.
The Customs Area Controller expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for equipping officers with the necessary resources to execute their duties effectively.
He also acknowledged the support of Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, traditional rulers, sister security agencies, and the media for their contributions to the Command’s success.
In his closing remarks, Comptroller Adelaja reaffirmed the Oyo/Osun Area Command’s dedication to Nigeria’s economic growth and national security.
“We remain resolute in our mission to secure our borders, enhance revenue collection, and contribute to the nation’s development,” he declared.
With a firm stance against smuggling and a commitment to efficiency, the Oyo/Osun Customs Command is poised to sustain its impressive track record in the months ahead.
