Customs Facilitates 28,000mt Of Export At Seme Border In February

The Seme border command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), on Thursday, said it facilitated the export of 28,000 metric tonnes of cargoes worth N7.85 billion out of Nigeria to neighboring countries.

Speaking during his maiden press briefing, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Dr. Ben Oramalugo, said the Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) stood at N39.26 million, with a total surcharge of N2.43 million.

According to him, the command generated N743.7 million in revenue while it Intercepted contraband worth N267 million in the month of February, 2025.

Dr. Oramalugo, however, hinted that the Command’s commitment to blocking revenue leakages and enhancing national economic growth necessitated the amount generated in February.

“The Command facilitated the export of over 28,000 metric tonnes of goods (806 trucks), valued at N7.85 billion ($4.99 million USD). The Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) paid stood at N39.26 million, with a total surcharge of N2.43 million.”

“The Command will leverage on the trade facilitation initiatives to foster a more efficient, transparent and predictable trade environment thereby contributing to Nigeria’s growth and development.”

Speaking on seized contraband, the Customs boss, said the Command’s renewed crackdown on smuggling led to the interception of various contraband worth N266 million.

The seized items, according to the CAC, are 444 parcels of cannabis sativa (marijuana), 181 packs of tramadol, 600 bottles of codeine syrup and 1,809 bags of smuggled rice (50kg each).

Others are 240 kegs of petroleum motor spirit (PMS) and 17 sacks of used shoes, 56 bales of used clothes, and 203 pieces of used tyres.

As part of its inter-agency collaboration, the seized cannabis was officially handed over to the NDLEA for further action.

Dr. Oramalugo outlined strategic initiatives aimed at boosting operational efficiency, including the redeployment of officers for enhanced border surveillance.

He emphasised that inter-agency collaborations, engagement with traditional rulers, and intelligence-sharing mechanisms have been instrumental in strengthening national security.

He also issued a stern warning to smugglers, stating that the Seme Area Command is fully prepared to track down, arrest, and prosecute offenders.

Dr. Oramalugo said, “The achievements of the Command are a testament to the support from the comptroller general of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and the dedication of officers implementing intelligence-driven strategies.

“The Command will continue to intensify surveillance, deploy advanced intelligence systems, and foster partnerships to enhance trade facilitation and border security”, Dr Oramalugo hinted.

He concluded by appreciating security agencies, stakeholders, and the media for their contributions, while reaffirming the Command’s commitment to efficiency, transparency, and national economic growth.