The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Command, has facilitated the export of 2,029 trucks loaded with more than 88,000 metric tonnes of made-in-Nigeria goods to other West African countries via the Seme-Krake border within just two months.
Speaking at a media briefing at the ECOWAS Joint Border Post, Customs Area Controller Dr Ben Oramalugo revealed that the goods, exported between March 14 and May 13, 2025, had a Free on Board (FOB) value exceeding N16.9 billion. The operations also generated N84.5 million in fees under the National Export Supervision Scheme (NESS).
Dr Oramalugo emphasized the agency’s commitment to promoting non-oil exports and strengthening Nigeria’s manufacturing base through efficient cross-border trade management.
Meanwhile, in a separate development, the Seme Command recorded several significant anti-smuggling victories. Among the most notable was the seizure of foreign coins, which are illegal under Nigeria’s Common External Tariff. In one instance, a motorcyclist fled after abandoning a bag on Owode Road. The bag contained various foreign denominations, including two-dollar coins, one-pound coins, and Canadian cents.
Further seizures followed in April and May, including a Mazda vehicle intercepted with a large quantity of additional foreign coins and a red Toyota Avensis suspected of carrying improvised explosive devices hidden under cartons of the Holy Qur’an. The items, including corrosive mercury, are currently under investigation.
Other contraband items confiscated during the period include:
- 553 parcels of Cannabis Sativa
- 1,415 bags of foreign parboiled rice
- 750 kegs of PMS
- 50 bales of second-hand clothing
- 30 cartons of tobacco
- 50 cartons of tomato ketchup
- Five smuggling vehicles
- 420 bottles of unregistered pharmaceutical products
The total value of these seizures was estimated at N669.8 million.
Dr Oramalugo also issued a warning to the public about online fraudsters impersonating Customs officers, stressing that NCS does not auction vehicles on social media. He urged citizens to follow only verified communication channels.
Finally, he praised the dedication of Customs personnel and called on border community leaders to steer their youth away from smuggling.
