The Nigeria Customs Service, Port Harcourt Area 2 Command, Onne, achieved remarkable success in revenue generation and anti-smuggling operations between May 2024 and July 2025. Under the leadership of then-Customs Area Controller (CAC), Muhammad Babandede, the command collected a staggering N859 billion in revenue, demonstrating the effectiveness of their strategies and the robust economic activity within the Onne Port. This impressive figure underscores the vital role of the customs service in contributing to national revenue and supporting government initiatives. Simultaneously, the command’s relentless anti-smuggling efforts resulted in the interception of contraband goods worth over N200 billion, showcasing their unwavering commitment to protecting the nation’s borders and economy from illicit trade.
The period under review witnessed consistent revenue generation month after month, reflecting the command’s dedication to optimizing collection procedures and combating revenue leakage. Starting with N47.421 billion in May 2024, the command maintained a strong performance throughout the year, consistently exceeding N47 billion monthly and reaching peaks above N60 billion in June, July, October, and December. This positive trend continued into 2025, with revenue figures fluctuating between N54 billion and N66 billion, culminating in a total exceeding N859 billion over the 15-month period. This remarkable consistency highlights the command’s ability to adapt to changing economic conditions and maintain a high level of performance.
Beyond revenue generation, the Onne Command achieved significant success in disrupting smuggling operations and preventing the influx of illicit goods into the country. The interceptions encompassed a wide range of contraband, demonstrating the sophisticated methods employed by smugglers and the command’s vigilance in countering them. The seizures included 544 assorted rifles and 112,500 rounds of ammunition, underscoring the serious security implications of unchecked smuggling activities. Additionally, the command confiscated large quantities of prohibited pharmaceuticals and illicit drugs, highlighting the risks to public health posed by these illegal substances.
The seized pharmaceuticals included over 75 million tablets of tramadol, a powerful opioid analgesic often abused for non-medical purposes. Furthermore, over 14 million bottles of cough syrup containing codeine, another opioid with a high potential for abuse and addiction, were intercepted. The command also confiscated over 50 million tablets of other dangerous and expired medications, posing significant health risks to consumers. The combined value of these seized items exceeded N200 billion, demonstrating the scale of the illegal trade and the substantial financial impact of the command’s successful interventions.
The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, commended Babandede and his team for their outstanding performance, recognizing their efforts in protecting national security and safeguarding the economy. Adeniyi acknowledged that the seizures represented not only a customs success but also a significant contribution to national security, highlighting the interconnectedness of these areas. He praised the officers for their professionalism, diligence, and commitment to the fight against smuggling, emphasizing the positive impact of their work on the nation. The CGC’s commendation underscores the importance of the Onne Command’s achievements within the broader context of national security and economic stability.
Babandede’s leadership was instrumental in achieving these remarkable results. He fostered a culture of professionalism and efficiency within the command, motivating officers to perform at their best. His strategic approach to combating smuggling and optimizing revenue collection resulted in significant successes, laying a strong foundation for future accomplishments. Following his impressive tenure at the Onne Command, Babandede was promoted to Assistant Comptroller General, reflecting his competence and dedication to the Nigeria Customs Service. This promotion is a testament to his outstanding leadership and the significant contributions he made to the service during his time as CAC of the Onne Command.
