The Nigerian Customs Service, Area 2 Command, in Onne, Rivers State, announced a total revenue generation of over ₦190 billion for the first quarter of 2025.
At a press briefing held on Wednesday, the Customs Area Controller for Onne, Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, reported that 20 containers of contraband goods had been seized by officers during this period.
The seized items were valued at more than ₦10.2 billion.
Babandede praised the diligence and integrity of his officers, saying, “These seizures are products of courage, bravery, a high level of integrity, and the self-determined posture of the officers to be patriotic to their oath of allegiance, exhibited through objective and careful examination, meticulous documentary checks, and professionalism.”
The total duty-paid value of the confiscated goods amounted to ₦10,293,677,040.00. Additionally, Babandede revealed that the command had collected ₦190,569,212,397.42 in revenue from January to March 2025.
This represents a significant improvement over the ₦162,705,313,561.48 collected in the same period in 2024, showing an increase of ₦27,864,668,442.61, or 17.12%.
On the export front, the Area 2 Command facilitated the export of 1,274,695 metric tonnes of mainly agricultural products and solid minerals. The value of these exports totaled ₦2,345,268,122.
Babandede also addressed the issue of smuggling, emphasizing that anyone caught engaging in illegal trade would face severe legal consequences.
He warned, “It is important to know that importing illicit drugs and other prohibited items into the country can have serious consequences for both the public and society.”
He further reiterated, “Worthy of note is the fact that perpetrating any illegal act is criminal and remains punishable under the extant laws of the Nigeria Customs Service, with legal consequences including a fine, imprisonment, or both, depending on the case.”
Babandede stressed that the commitment of the NCS to contributing to the nation’s economic development and security, calling for ongoing collaboration with stakeholders.
“The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to its role in contributing to the country’s economic development and security. I urge compliant stakeholders to sustain their partnership and cooperation with the Service in achieving its goals,” he noted.
Among the items seized were illicit drugs, used clothes (bales), and foodstuffs.
