Customs unit recovers N2bn, intercepts 21,000 rice bags - Punch Newspapers
The outgoing Customs Area Controller in charge of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service, Gambo Aliyu, has stated that the command’s approach to tackling smuggling has been deliberate and targeted, relying heavily on intelligence-driven operations rather than random actions. In a statement, Aliyu said this when he received members of the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists on a courtesy visit to the command in Ikeja. The group, which paid a farewell visit to Aliyu, honoured him for his outstanding leadership, professionalism and contributions to the fight against smuggling, describing him as a media-friendly customs officer who distinguished himself through integrity, accessibility and intelligence-driven anti-smuggling operations. Speaking during the event, Aliyu disclosed that the unit generated and recovered more than N2bn for the Federation Account over the last nine months. He also revealed that the unit intercepted more than 21,000 bags of smuggled rice, equivalent to approximately 35 truckloads, during the period under review, alongside illicit drugs and other prohibited items. Aliyu attributed the achievements to the commitment of his officers and the support of the Customs management, stressing that the unit’s operations were increasingly driven by intelligence. “Our approach to tackling smuggling has been deliberate and targeted, relying heavily on intelligence-driven operations rather than random actions,” Aliyu said. The outgoing Controller also emphasised the importance of media support in the fight against smuggling and other forms of economic crime. Customs seize N5.53bn prohibited imports at Port Harcourt Stakeholders tie port modernisation to cargo efficiency APM Terminals targets rail, 24-hour barge operations “We view journalists as strategic partners and critical allies in our fight against crime and smuggling, a challenge no single agency can tackle alone,” he said. Aliyu added that while the service was doing everything possible to suppress smuggling, the collaboration of strategic partners, particularly the media, remained essential to achieving lasting success. “On a personal note, as a former member of the press, I am incredibly proud to stand alongside you,” he said. Earlier, the Chairman of the group, Dele Aderibigbe, said the gathering was unusual because journalists were not at the unit to cover an event but had deliberately come together to “celebrate a customs officer they regarded as a friend and professional partner.” “We came here today just to say that we are incredibly proud of you,” Aderibigbe said. He described journalists as watchdogs of society, noting that their responsibility sometimes makes stakeholders uncomfortable, but stressed that their ultimate commitment remained the truth. Also speaking, Chairman of the NNMJ Advisory Board, Sesan Onileimo, reaffirmed the group’s appreciation of Aliyu, describing him as a man who keeps his word. He said keeping promises despite challenges was a demonstration of integrity, adding that Aliyu had built a strong relationship with maritime journalists. Anozie Egole Anozie is a Chief Correspondent at Punch Newspapers with over 13 years of experience covering entertainment, maritime, and transport sectors. He specializes in producing insightful, engaging stories that provide clarity and depth across his beats. Anozie’s work reflects substantial newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accurate and compelling journalism.
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