Customs Bust Smuggling Network, Seize ₦98m Goods North-East Nigeria
Oluwafunbi Bello 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigeria Customs Service has uncovered a major smuggling network operating across Nigeria’s North-East, seizing contraband worth over ₦98.3 million.
The six-week operation targeted illicit fuel and wildlife trafficking routes spanning Adamawa and Taraba states.
Briefing journalists, Assistant Comptroller General Aminu Tako said the seizures followed coordinated intelligence and surveillance efforts across border communities.
Among the items intercepted were 32,860 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 2,800 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), unregistered pharmaceutical products, second-hand clothing, and wildlife derivatives, including donkey skins.
In a separate operation, officers recovered more than 500 raw donkey skins and large quantities of processed meat, indicating a thriving illegal wildlife trade.
“The Service will maintain zero tolerance for smuggling,” Tako said, warning that offenders face arrest and prosecution under the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
Authorities say porous borders, difficult terrain, and price disparities in petroleum products continue to drive smuggling activities in the region.
The crackdown reflects renewed enforcement efforts aimed at protecting national revenue and disrupting illicit cross-border trade networks.
Experts note that sustained intelligence-led operations and inter-agency collaboration will be critical to dismantling entrenched smuggling routes and securing economic assets.
About the Author
Oluwatobi Adu 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 