The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has once again demonstrated its relentless commitment to combating smuggling and protecting the nation’s economy. In a decisive operation, Customs officials successfully intercepted and impounded nine trucks loaded with smuggled rice in Ogun State.
The development was made public via the official X handle of Nigerian Stories, signaling the latest victory in the agency’s crackdown on illicit cross-border trade, particularly in Nigeria’s southwestern region.
According to preliminary reports, the rice-laden trucks were apprehended following a well-coordinated surveillance effort by Customs operatives. The interception comes amidst renewed efforts by the NCS to curb the inflow of contraband goods, which not only undermine local production but also threaten national food security.
Ogun State, due to its proximity to neighboring Benin Republic, has remained a notorious hotspot for rice smuggling activities. Despite the federal government’s ban on rice importation to boost local agriculture, smugglers continue to exploit porous border routes to flood the Nigerian market with foreign rice.
A senior Customs official, who spoke under anonymity, lauded the operatives for their vigilance and swift action. “This seizure underscores our unwavering commitment to enforcing trade regulations and safeguarding local industries. Smuggling is an economic sabotage, and we will continue to fight it head-on,” the official emphasized.
While details surrounding the ownership of the trucks and suspects involved are yet to be fully disclosed, investigations are already underway. The NCS has reiterated its warning to smugglers, vowing to intensify patrols and enforce stricter border security measures.
The interception of these nine trucks is seen as a significant blow to smuggling syndicates operating in the region and serves as a strong deterrent to those bent on undermining Nigeria’s economic policies.
This operation reflects the Customs’ renewed commitment under its current leadership to protect the economy, empower local farmers, and strengthen food security in line with President Bola Tinubu’s economic agenda.
The NCS further urged citizens to support their efforts by providing credible information on smuggling activities. “Together, we can defeat the enemies of our economy,” the spokesperson concluded.
PIONEER NEWS 