CUSTOMS CG FLAUNTS FOU ‘A’ & OPERATION WHIRLWIND’S FEATS; AS THEY RECORD ABOUT N1.8 BILLION SEIZURES IN FOUR WEEKS
By Timothy Paul Okorocha
About N1.8 billion worth of contraband goods were seized by the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) zone A, Ikeja and the Operation Whirlwind of the zone A customs service in the last five weeks. Comptroller General of the Customs service, Adewale Adeniyi, MFR disclosed to newsmen in Lagos today.
The Customs boss who was represented by the National Co-ordinator of Operation Whirlwind, ACG HK Ejibunu said petroleum products intercepted by the Operation Whirlwind alone are worth N58.3 million just within two and three weeks.
“We are gathered here today to provide an update on the Unit’s activities and achievements over the past few weeks particularly our relentless efforts to dismantle smuggling syndicates, curb illicit trade, and disrupt criminal networks operating within our area of responsibility.
Operational Overview
In the past four weeks, from June 3rd to July 18th, 2025, the Unit has sustained a high operational tempo across the southwestern states. Our intelligence-led operations have enabled us to proactively intercept smuggled goods, disrupt illicit supply chains, and strengthen border enforcement. During this period, a total of 102 enforcement interventions were recorded, leading to the interception of a wide range of prohibited and smuggled goods.
Breakdown of Major Seizures
Below is a summary of the significant items seized during this period:
• 3,500 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each) – equivalent to 6 trailer loads
• 304kg of Cannabis Sativa (Indian Hemp)
• 7,900 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) – in 316 jerry cans of 25 liters each
• 54 bags and 20 bales of used clothing
• 41 sacks and bags of used footwear
• 14 units of used (“Tokunbo”) vehicles
• 148 pieces of used tyres
• 42 used gas cylinders
• 31 units of air conditioning systems
• 95 cartons of frozen poultry products
Other notable seizures include 1X40FT container with container number TRHU 83907321 fully loaded with used tyres, 1X20FT with container number ONEU241369 containing medicaments. Others are 2X40FT with containers numbers MSKU 4796036, MAEU 9205708, and one truck with container body conveying used fridges, foreign supermarket items and used clothes . All the containers were wrongly declared to invade duties.
Arrests and Prosecution
A total of nine (9) suspects were arrested in connection with these seizures. While some were granted administrative bail, others have been, or will be, handed over to relevant security agencies for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Valuation of Seizures
The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of all intercepted items stands at an impressive 1,784,432,000 (one billion , Seven Hundred and eighty four million four hundred and thirty two thousand Naira).
Commitment to Professionalism and Collaboration
The Federal Operations Unit remains deeply committed to executing its mandate with the utmost professionalism and in strict adherence to extant regulations. Our operations are conducted with restraint, respect for human rights, and a commitment to peaceful enforcement.
To enhance synergy and support for our activities, I have embarked on familiarization visits to traditional institutions and sister security agencies across the zone. These visits aim to deepen collaboration in our collective effort to combat trans-border crimes and enhance national security.
Tribute to Officers and Men
These achievements would not be possible without the dedication and courage of our gallant officers, who risk their lives daily to secure our borders and protect the national economy. Their sacrifices are commendable and deserve public recognition.
Revenue Recovery through Demand Notices
In addition to our enforcement duties, the Unit also ensures compliance with import and export regulations. We have continued to scrutinize questionable declarations, correct under-valuations, and issue Demand Notices (DNs) where appropriate.
Between June 3rd and July 18th, 2025, the Unit recovered a total of ₦95,587,231.47 (Ninety-Five Million, Five Hundred and Eighty-Seven Thousand, Two Hundred and Thirty-One Naira, Forty-Seven Kobo) in underpaid duties.
Trade Facilitation
While we maintain vigilance against smuggling and fraud, the FOU remains a strong partner in trade facilitation. We continue to support legitimate trade through intelligence-driven operations that strike a balance between security enforcement and economic growth ensuring that lawful traders are not unduly hindered in the process.
Conclusion
Gentlemen of the press,
The milestones we’ve recorded are a testament to the Nigerian Customs Service’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s economy and ensuring national security.
We thank you for your continued support and urge the public to report any suspicious activity as we work together to build a safer, more prosperous Nigeria”.
Thank you, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.