Enhanced Operations Drive Massive Seizures, Trade Growth at Ogun I Area Command
ZAINAB JUNAID
The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its anti-smuggling operations, recording the seizure of 1,202 kegs of smuggled vegetable oil valued at ₦120.2 million. It also handed over intercepted mica stones worth ₦104.7 million to the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.
Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni made this known on Tuesday, 31 March 2026 saying the vegetable oil seizures were made during two intelligence-driven operations conducted on 19 and 24 March 2026.
DC Afeni noted that the operation is part of ongoing efforts to eliminate unfair trade practices that undermine local vegetable oil producers and distort the Nigerian market.
According to the Controller, the latest interception builds on earlier successes, including the seizure of 2,539 kegs of vegetable oil on March 11, 2026, and 2,090 kegs on December 16, 2025.
“These seizures represent a significant win for the Nigerian economy,” the Controller said, adding that removing smuggled goods from circulation helps protect local industries, preserve jobs, and promote fair competition.
Customs Hands Over Seized Mica Stones to the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.
In a related development, the Command formally handed over 285 sacks of mica stones, each weighing 50kg, to the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development during a ceremony held at its headquarters in Abeokuta.
The minerals, valued at ₦104,775,000, were intercepted during a routine anti-smuggling patrol, highlighting the Command’s expanded role in curbing the illegal export of Nigeria’s natural resources.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Comptroller Afeni, represented by Assistant Comptroller E.K. Onyeasor emphasised the broader implications of illegal mineral trade.
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“The illicit export of solid minerals poses a serious threat to both national security and economic stability. The Ogun I Command remains resolute as an impenetrable barrier against the illegal outflow of our national wealth,” he said.
He further described the handover as a reflection of a “whole-of-government approach,” ensuring collaboration among agencies responsible for enforcing environmental and mining regulations.
Receiving the seized items, a representative of the Ministry, Engr. Ojediran Abimbola Olubumi, commended the Command for its vigilance and professionalism.
The Ministry confirmed that the recovered mica stones would undergo geological analysis and be incorporated into the national mineral database as part of ongoing reforms to sanitize the mining sector.
Meanwhile, the Command reported significant progress in trade facilitation, recording a notable increase in export performance for March 2026.
The figure released show that in March 2026, 277.8 metric tonnes valued at $383,100 was processed and when compared to 20.0 metric tonnes, valued at $104,600, processed for the same period in 2025, represents a 266 percent increase in export value, reflecting improved operational efficiency and strengthened monitoring systems across the Idiroko border corridor and adjoining waterways.
The Command attributed the growth to enhanced processing capabilities and stricter surveillance measures aimed at ensuring compliance with export regulations.