Between September 1 and October 9, 2025, the Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service recorded significant anti-smuggling operations along the Lagos–Abidjan Corridor, seizing contraband items valued at approximately ₦1.99 billion.
Among the intercepted items were 10,000 bags of expired flour imported from Egypt, transported in five trucks. These goods, with a duty-paid value of ₦1.2 billion, were flagged as dangerous to public health, posing risks such as food poisoning, infections, and long-term health complications if allowed into local markets.
Located in Badagry, Lagos State, the Seme Border remains one of the country’s most strategic land entry points, serving as a gateway for trade along the transnational Lagos–Abidjan Corridor. This 1,028-kilometre route is critical to West African trade, accounting for a large percentage of the region’s commercial activities. In light of this, the Customs Command continues to intensify operations to curb smuggling and foster legitimate commerce.
Within the review period, the Command also seized 1,104 parcels of cannabis sativa and 120 packs of tramadol. Two suspects connected to the drug seizures were transferred to the appropriate authorities for further investigation. Additional items intercepted include:
- 2,043 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each)
- 150 bales of second-hand clothing
- 169 bottles of codeine-based cough syrup
- Five used vehicles
These seizures underscore the Command’s commitment to protecting the economy and public safety. Smuggling was described as a form of economic sabotage that undermines national revenue and threatens the wellbeing of citizens. Efforts and resources used for illicit trade, it was noted, could otherwise support job creation and the growth of local industries, particularly Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
On export activities, the Command facilitated non-oil exports amounting to 53,989.46 metric tonnes. The goods, which included agricultural produce and manufactured items, had a Free on Board (FOB) value of ₦7.9 billion, with ₦39.8 million generated in Nigerian Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) fees. The growing volume of exports is seen as a sign of increasing confidence in Seme as a viable trade hub under regional trade agreements.
In terms of revenue generation, the Command recorded ₦1.5 billion in September 2025, a substantial increase from ₦531.4 million in August — representing a 182% growth. This improvement was attributed to the implementation of streamlined procedures, enhanced inter-agency cooperation, and sustained efforts to support legitimate trade through customs modernisation.
The Command reiterated its balanced approach to revenue generation, trade facilitation, and national security, with ongoing reliance on technology and intelligence-driven operations for effective border management. It also acknowledged the support of security partners in joint enforcement operations, particularly in intercepting contraband along the waterways.
As efforts continue to secure the nation’s borders, the Command remains focused on fostering lawful trade, protecting public health, and supporting economic development through consistent enforcement and collaboration.
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