Bauchi – The Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘D’, of the Nigeria Customs Service has seized smuggled goods with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over ₦82.1 million in a two-week operation across nine states in the country’s North-East and North-Central regions.
The Zone Comptroller, Mr. Abdullahi Kaila, disclosed this during a press briefing in Bauchi on Friday, stating that the seizures were made between December 8 and 19, 2025.
Kaila, who assumed duty two weeks ago, reiterated his pledge of zero tolerance for smuggling. He stated that the recent haul reflects the unit’s commitment to translating that promise into decisive action.
“Upon my assumption of duty, I pledged a firm stance against smuggling. These seizures are a clear testament to our renewed vigor and operational resolve,” Kaila said as 15,100 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 34 bales and 6 sacks of second-hand clothing, 150 cartons of foreign spaghetti, 80 sacks of used shoes, 390 jerrycans of vegetable oil, and 20 cartons of foreign washing soap were seized.
The comptroller attributed the successful interdictions to intensified patrols, intelligence-driven operations, and the professionalism of officers. He noted a relative decline in smuggling attempts, particularly involving wildlife, controlled drugs, narcotics, and PMS, during the period.
He emphasized that all operations were conducted in strict compliance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
Kaila also highlighted strengthened inter-agency collaboration with other security and regulatory bodies, which he said has been crucial in enhancing intelligence sharing and disrupting smuggling networks.
The comptroller issued a stern warning to individuals involved in illicit trade, stating there would be “no hiding place” for smugglers within the zone, which covers Adamawa, Taraba, Bauchi, Gombe, Borno, Yobe, Plateau, Benue, and Nasarawa States.
He announced plans to prioritize public sensitization through media engagement and community outreach to educate citizens on the economic dangers of smuggling and encourage the reporting of illegal activities.
Kaila commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and his management team for their support, and praised the dedication of his officers. He also thanked the press for their role in publicizing the unit’s efforts.
He reaffirmed the unit’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding national borders, ensuring security, and supporting the Nigeria Customs Service’s pivotal role in fostering economic growth.