The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched a major technological offensive against economic saboteurs, announcing the nationwide deployment of an electronic tracking system. The move comes as the service paraded 20 diverted transit containers with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N769,533,666 million in Kano.
New Tech for End-to-End Cargo Visibility
Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, unveiled the strategy on Friday. He stated that the service is poised to counter criminal networks by deploying validated technology solutions across all operational terminals. The system offers real-time cargo monitoring and route verification, which has already been tested in some Southern states.
Adeniyi emphasized that the End-to-End visibility technology will be installed at ports and destination terminals to ensure the security and efficiency of trade movement. He revealed that the Kano/Jigawa Command alone had received over 40 containers fitted with these tracking devices ahead of the full rollout.
Breakdown of the N769.5 Million Kano Seizure
While showcasing the intercepted goods, CG Adeniyi provided a detailed breakdown of the seized items, all unlawfully diverted from their intended destinations:
- Vitrified Tiles: Seven containers (TCKU 1051805) carrying 140 pallets of ceramic glazed vitrified tiles were intercepted on Hadejia Road. They were diverted from the Kano Free Trade Zone, with a DPV of N228,578,228.
- Diesel Engine Oil: Two containers (MSKU 5998113 and MRKU 9152184) loaded with 1,188 twenty-litre drums were intercepted at private warehouses in Dakata Industrial Area on 15 July 2025. DPV: N87,557,746 million.
- Polyester Materials: Two containers (ZCSU 6770945 and TCKU 7191131) were seized in Dakata, with a DPV of N77,989,910 million.
- Used Clothing: One container (FCIU 9693626) with 308 bales was intercepted near Gano bonded terminal on 20 August 2025. DPV: N48,418,505 million.
- Printed and Lace Fabrics: Four containers en route to Dabo and MH Gano Bonded Terminals, carrying 1,283 bales of fabrics and tea bags, were seized. DPV: N226,153,491.
Commitment to Trade Facilitation and Integrity
Comptroller General Adeniyi stated that the NCS is adopting international best practices from bodies like the World Customs Organisation (WCO) to modernise operations. He expressed concern over unscrupulous elements and vulnerable officials who circumvent regulations.
"These initiatives are evidence of our genuine desire to support the Federal Government’s trade facilitation agenda," Adeniyi said. He highlighted that moving cargo to inland terminals and Free Trade Zones is a strategic economic priority, and the Service has invested in capacity and systems.
He concluded with a firm warning: "The Nigeria Customs Service remains your reliable partner in legitimate trade... However, this partnership is predicated on mutual respect for the law. We will continue to enforce the law, unmoved by threats, inducements, or political pressure." This crackdown signals a new, tech-driven chapter in Nigeria's fight against customs-related economic sabotage.
