The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adamawa and Taraba Command, under the leadership of Comptroller Garba Bashir, has launched an intensified campaign against smuggling activities within its jurisdiction. This renewed effort underscores the command’s commitment to safeguarding the national economy and protecting the welfare of Nigerian citizens, particularly in light of recent economic reforms aimed at stabilizing the energy sector and ensuring adequate domestic supply of petroleum products. Comptroller Bashir’s declaration of war against smuggling comes as the command records significant seizures of petroleum products and other contraband items, generating substantial revenue in duties and demonstrating a resolute stance against economic sabotage. The command’s proactive approach signifies a critical step towards curbing illicit trade and strengthening border security in the region.
Comptroller Bashir highlighted the severe consequences of petroleum product smuggling, emphasizing the hardships it inflicts on ordinary Nigerians and the broader national economy. The illegal exportation of these essential commodities undermines domestic supply chains, causing shortages and price volatility, thereby affecting the livelihoods of millions. Furthermore, the illicit trade poses a direct threat to national security, enabling criminal networks and potentially fueling other forms of illegal activity. The comptroller stressed the importance of collective responsibility in combating smuggling, urging all stakeholders to support the government’s efforts to stabilize the energy sector and protect the nation’s economic interests. He underscored that the Customs Service remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the integrity of Nigeria’s borders and preventing economic sabotage.
The command’s intensified anti-smuggling operations have yielded substantial results, with the seizure of a considerable volume of petroleum products destined for neighboring countries through illegal routes and waterways. The duty paid value on these seized products within a four-month period amounted to N195,719,930 million, demonstrating the scale of the illicit trade and the financial implications for the national economy. This success reflects the command’s dedication to disrupting smuggling networks and stemming the flow of illegally exported goods. Comptroller Bashir attributed these achievements to the unwavering commitment of customs officers and the deployment of strategic resources to enhance border surveillance and enforcement.
Beyond petroleum products, the command also seized a variety of other contraband items, including elephant tusks and alcoholic products, underscoring the multifaceted nature of smuggling activities in the region. The seizure of tankers, trailers, and other vehicles used to transport these illegal goods further demonstrates the command’s resolve to dismantle the logistical infrastructure supporting smuggling operations. This comprehensive approach aims to cripple the entire smuggling network, from the transportation of goods to their eventual distribution. The command’s efforts highlight the importance of coordinated action in tackling illicit trade and securing the nation’s borders against a wide range of prohibited items.
A notable development in the Adamawa and Taraba Command’s anti-smuggling efforts is the prosecution of suspects at the Federal High Court in Yola, a first for the command. This legal action signifies a significant step towards ensuring accountability and deterring future smuggling activities. By pursuing legal proceedings against those involved in illicit trade, the command aims to send a clear message that smuggling will not be tolerated and that perpetrators will face the full force of the law. This proactive approach to prosecution demonstrates the command’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and strengthening the legal framework against economic sabotage.
Comptroller Bashir reiterated the Nigeria Customs Service’s unwavering commitment to protecting the national economy and maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s borders. He pledged to sustain the deployment of additional resources and implement more stringent measures to combat smuggling within the command’s jurisdiction. This includes strengthening border surveillance, enhancing intelligence gathering, and fostering collaboration with other law enforcement agencies. Comptroller Bashir emphasized that smugglers would find no safe haven within the command and that the Customs Service would relentlessly pursue those who engage in illicit trade, regardless of their tactics or connections. This firm stance reflects the command’s dedication to protecting Nigeria’s economic interests and ensuring the well-being of its citizens.
