Customs Seize Live Turtles, Military Gear, and Contraband Worth N3.32 Billion at Lagos Airport
The Murtala Muhammed Airport Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted contraband items worth over N3.32 billion, including 250 live turtles, Canadian Cannabis Sativa, and military equipment, between July and October 2024.
At a press briefing, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Michael Awe, disclosed that the Command generated N144.2 billion in revenue between January and October 2024—a remarkable 94% increase compared to the N74.28 billion recorded during the same period in 2023.
Seized Items and Their Origins
The contraband items, shipped from countries like Canada and Turkey, include:
- 23 walkie-talkies
- 175 military helmets
- 50 drones
- 7 packages of Tramadol Hydrochloride (200mg & 225mg)
- 1.5kg of pangolin scales
- 0.2kg of porcupine quills
Comptroller Awe noted that these items violated provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCS Act) 2023. He emphasized the Command’s commitment to curbing illicit trade, with the seized goods’ Duty Paid Value (DPV) totaling N3.32 billion within the last three months.
Revenue Performance and Key Drivers
The Command’s revenue performance reflected significant growth, attributed to:
- Enhanced trade facilitation and stakeholder compliance
- Strategic resource deployment
- Collaboration with other security agencies
- Efficient cargo clearance processes
- Intelligent risk management strategies
“We achieved a progressive revenue increase of N69.9 billion compared to 2023, underscoring a 94% improvement,” Comptroller Awe stated.
Measures to Strengthen Operations
To further boost revenue, combat smuggling, and enhance trade facilitation, the Command has implemented several initiatives, including:
- Streamlined cargo clearance procedures
- Enhanced cargo inspection and intelligence gathering
- Closer collaboration with security agencies
- Regular engagement with stakeholders
Commendations and Future Plans
Comptroller Awe expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and his management team for their support. He also commended the dedication of his officers and acknowledged the cooperation of stakeholders, including importers, exporters, and clearing agents.
Looking ahead, Awe pledged to strengthen anti-smuggling measures, improve stakeholder relations, and leverage technology to ensure more efficient operations.
“Our commitment to excellence remains unwavering as we strive to protect our borders, enhance trade, and generate revenue for national development,” he concluded.
