AFENI LIVES UP TO THE CG’S BILLING; TRANSFORMS OGUN BORDERS FROM A SMUGGLING CORRIDOR TO A GATEWAY OF LEGITIMATE TRADE
BY TIMOTHY PAUL OKOROCHA
For decades, the Idiroko border in Ogun State was synonymous with illicit trade. Its labyrinth of bush paths and porous creeks made it a haven for smugglers trafficking rice, petroleum products, narcotics, and second‑hand goods. Traders often bypassed legitimate customs channels, undermining Nigeria’s economy and eroding public trust in border enforcement.
When Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni assumed office in December 2025, expectations were modest. Yet within 12 days, his command intercepted contraband with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦2.006 billion, the highest seizure ever recorded in such a short span at Ogun I Command. The sudden twist of high-powered changes could not but raise eyebrows. But this was not a fluke, it was the beginning of a new enforcement doctrine.
Enforcement as Infrastructure
For Afeni, his operational philosophy was clear as crystal from the word go: enforcement is not just about policing smugglers but about building economic infrastructure. His command has embraced intelligence-led enforcement, combining data analysis, community intelligence, and strategic patrols to anticipate smuggling
Between February and March 2026, seizures worth ₦1.35 billion were recorded. These include 1,204 bags of foreign9 parboiled rice (two trailer loads), 2,547 parcels of cannabis sativa, 545 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) totaling 13,625 litres, 36 cartons of Bardinet syrup, 50 bags of imported sugar, 8 bales of second‑hand clothing, sacks of used handbags and footwear; and two used vehicles.
These seizures illustrate the evolving tactics of smugglers, who diversify cargo to evade detection. Yet Afeni’s command has consistently outmaneuvered them.
Revenue Growth: Proof of Compliance
Enforcement has translated directly into revenue. In Q1 2026, Ogun I Command generated ₦285,652,469, surpassing ₦259,265,495 in the same period of 2025 — a 1,082% year‑on‑year growth. This surge was driven by enhanced baggage assessments and auction sales of seized petroleum products.
Speaking on the impressive scorecards, Afeni explained: “Our revenue growth is proof that compliance is being embraced. Traders now understand that Ogun I is a command where rules are enforced firmly but fairly.”
Export Revival: Opening Gateways
Perhaps the most striking achievement under Afeni’s leadership is the revival of exports. For the first time in years, Ogun I Command recorded 95 metric tons of export goods with a Free on Board (FOB) value of ₦305,749,264.05. In 2025, export activity at Idiroko was virtually nonexistent.
On that too, he said: “We are not only shutting the door on smuggling; we are opening legitimate pathways for Nigerian exporters.” This export revival positions Idiroko as a legitimate trade hub within the ECOWAS framework, linking Nigeria to Benin and beyond.
Case Studies in Enforcement Afeni’s tenure has produced notable case studies that highlight the breadth of his enforcement strategy, namely:
Cannabis seizures: Over 2,547 parcels of cannabis were intercepted and handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), underscoring inter‑agency collaboration.
Wildlife protection: The command seized four live pangolins, a species threatened by trafficking, and transferred them to wildlife authorities.
Cultural heritage: Two antique artefacts dating back to the 19th century were intercepted and handed over to the National Museum in Abeokuta, reflecting professionalism in safeguarding Nigeria’s heritage.
These cases demonstrate that Afeni’s enforcement goes beyond economic contraband; but also focuses on the protection of public health, biodiversity, and cultural identity.
Technology and Community Engagement
Afeni has also embraced technology adoption. Scanners, drones, and digital reporting systems have tightened surveillance, while closer collaboration with host communities has improved intelligence gathering. Traders now operate in an environment where enforcement is predictable, reducing the incentive to smuggle.
Community leaders have praised Afeni’s outreach, noting that his officers engage with locals not as adversaries but as partners in securing the border. This has fostered trust and reduced resistance to enforcement operations.
Economic Spillover Effects It is instructive that the transformation of Idiroko is producing economic spillovers: mm
Logistics firms are returning, attracted by predictable enforcement. Exporters are re‑engaging, confident in legitimate pathways.
Local industries benefit from reduced smuggling of rice, petroleum, and textiles, which previously undermined domestic production.
I’m mmIndustry analysts argue that Afeni’s model demonstrates how border security can serve as a catalyst for economic growth.
Leadership Doctrine and Succession
Afeni’s success also reflects the strategic vision of Comptroller General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, who has emphasized merit‑based postings and operational efficiency. By appointing officers like Afeni, Adeniyi has proven that the Nigeria Customs Service possesses a ready pool of leaders capable of steering even the most complex commands.
It will be recalled that while pledging to do his utmost best to raise the bar during his takeover y Afeni said: “It is a great honour to assume leadership of Ogun I Command. I am fully aware of its strategic importance, and I will strengthen border security while promoting legitimate trade.”
A Gold Standard for Border Management
Less than six months into his tenure, the hardboiled Ogun 1 customs boss has redefined Idiroko. His record of discipline, integrity, And professionalism has transformed the border from a smuggling corridor into a gateway for legitimate trade.
For emphasis, the numbers below speak for themselves: *₦2.006 billion in seizures within 12 days *₦1.35 billion in seizures between February and March 2026. *₦285.6 million in Q1 revenue, a 1,082% growth. *95 metric tons of exports worth ₦305.7 million FOB
Under Afeni’s watch, Ogun I Command is now a case study in how strategic leadership can deliver both enforcement and facilitation. His doctrine proves that with vision and resilience, a border can become both a fortress against smuggling and a catalyst for economic growth.