Intensified Anti-Smuggling Efforts in Nigeria’s Adamawa and Taraba States
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has significantly ramped up its anti-smuggling operations, leading to a series of major seizures across multiple border areas. These efforts have resulted in the recovery of 20,600 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), along with various other goods valued at N112.6 million. The operations are part of a broader initiative aimed at curbing trans-border crimes and safeguarding public health.
During a press conference held at the Customs House in Yola, Comptroller Garba Bashir, the Customs Area Controller for the Adamawa/Taraba Area Command, shared details about these recent operations. He highlighted that the seized PMS was packed in 824 jerrycans, each containing 25 litres. This significant quantity underscores the scale of smuggling activities in the region.
In addition to the fuel, the command recovered several other items, including 91 cartons of expired Tramadol capsules, 54 cartons of foreign soaps, and 64 pieces of raw donkey skins intended for illegal exportation. These seizures were made over a six-week period, during which the command conducted intensive patrols and intelligence-driven operations along key smuggling routes such as the Mubi–Sahuda axis, Girei–Wuro Bokki route, Jamtari–Farang/Belel area, Wuro Alhaji, Damare bank, Gurin–Fufore axis, and Yerima road in Gembu.
Dangers of Expired Medical Products
Comptroller Bashir emphasized the risks associated with expired medical products, particularly the 91 cartons of Tramadol capsules intercepted on August 30, 2025, in Mubi. The operation was carried out through coordinated enforcement and credible intelligence. He warned that the circulation of substandard or expired drugs could lead to mass health crises, high mortality rates, and increased youth addiction.
“If these expired Tramadol capsules had entered the market, they could have caused widespread harm, human capital deterioration, and unfair market competition,” he said. The seized drugs will be handed over to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for safe destruction, in accordance with Section 55 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
Illegal Export of Donkey Skins
The interception of 64 raw donkey skins also raised concerns among officials. These items were seized on September 30, 2025, at the Damare River Bank following intelligence reports. The smugglers had hidden the skins in three sacks, waiting for nightfall to transport them into Cameroon.
According to Comptroller Bashir, the export of donkey skin violates Schedule 6 (Export Prohibition List) of the Common External Tariff and Section 150 of the NCS Act 2023. He noted that the seizure represents the slaughter of 64 donkeys, highlighting the threat of extinction if this illicit trade continues. International demand, especially from Asia, is primarily driving this activity.
Foreign Soap Seizures
On October 3, 2025, 54 cartons of foreign soap were intercepted along the Damare River Bank at around 10:00 p.m. The importation of these items contravenes Schedule 3 of the Common External Tariff (2022–2026) and Section 233 of the NCS Act 2023. The command continues to monitor and enforce regulations to prevent such violations.
Revenue Generation and Public Auction
The seized PMS will be auctioned to the public immediately after the press conference, following the Service’s Standard Operating Procedure. The proceeds will be remitted into the Federation Account, contributing to national revenue.
Strengthening Border Security
Comptroller Bashir stressed the importance of sustained engagement with border communities. Continuous dialogue with residents has helped disrupt smuggling networks and enhance intelligence-sharing mechanisms. Cooperation with sister security agencies and other Customs units has also played a crucial role in the command’s operational success.
Leadership and Media Collaboration
He commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for his visionary leadership and consistent support in empowering field operations. Bashir also thanked the media for their balanced reportage and urged journalists to continue educating the public on the dangers of smuggling to the nation’s economy and security.
“Let me state unequivocally that the Command will not relent in the fight against illicit trade until smuggling cartels and networks in Adamawa and Taraba States are completely dismantled within the confines of the law,” he said.
Bashir concluded by assuring that the Command will remain vigilant in protecting Nigeria’s borders and upholding its mandate of revenue generation, national security, and trade facilitation.
