Customs Intercepts N10.51bn Contrabands At Lagos Airport

The Murtala Muhammed Airport Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NSC) on Tuesday said it intercepted contrabands valued at N10.51 billion.

The seized items include 225 pieces of drones, 250 pieces of turtles, 1 package of pangolin skin, 21 packages of 225mg Tramadol Hydrochloride, 50 round of 9mm live ammunition and 54 packages of military hardware.

Customs Area Controller of the Command, Compt. Micheal Awe also disclosed that the command generated N180.75 billion from cargoes imported into the country through the airport in 2024.

Awe listed other contraband seized as 46 packages of dried sea cucumber, 3 packages of dried donkey male genitals, 55 pieces of Jojef Tomahawk semi-automatic rifle, 50 packages of dried Canadian Cannabis and 1 package of porcupine, thorns, and mineral stones.

“The command achieved a significant milestone in revenue generation to the tune of N180.75 billion in 2024 as against N90.42 billion that was generated in 2023, representing a 99.89% increase.

“The revenue target for the year 2024 was N179.74 billion, while the command generated a total revenue of N180.7 billion, which shows an increase of N1.01 billion, representing a 0.56% increase for the entire year. This feat demonstrates our commitment to excellence and our constant dedication to enforcing government fiscal policies,” Awe said.

Speaking on the seized items, Awe added that they have a cumulative Duty-Paid Value (DPV) of N10.51billion.

He added that the seizures are testament to the Command’s keen commitment to enforcing Customs laws and regulations.

The Commandant further mentioned that the command maintained an open-door policy, engaging with stakeholders, sister agencies, and the media to resolve issues of common interest.

According to him, the synergy has been instrumental in the Command’s success, while appreciating the support and cooperation received from stakeholders.

Moving forward, he maintained that the command will continue to innovate, strategise and block loopholes towards meeting its revenue targets and facilitating trade.

He added that the Command will also be unrelenting in enforcing Customs laws and regulations while also upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.