NAFDAC intercepts smuggled vegetable oil tankers and soap truck
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has intercepted three tankers of suspected smuggled vegetable oil and a truckload of soap that entered Nigeria illegally through land borders. The seizures were announced by NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Martins Iluyomade, during a news conference in Lagos on Friday.
Iluyomade stated that the three tankers, each with a capacity of 66,000 litres, were smuggled from Ghana with altered plate numbers. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the exact content of the oil and its street value. Additionally, a truckload of soap containing 40,000 cartons with an estimated street value of N500 million was also intercepted.
Smugglers use tactics to evade detection
Iluyomade revealed that smugglers have adopted various tactics to evade detection, including changing vehicle registration numbers and disguising prohibited imports as legitimate cargo. He noted an increase in smuggling activities along land border corridors. Some trucks claim to be carrying vegetable oil, but investigations show the products are imported through prohibited channels.
“NAFDAC is concerned about the health risks associated with smuggled goods because they often bypass regulatory inspections and certification processes,” he said.
Restricted items and economic impact
Imported vegetable oil and certain other products are on the federal government’s list of restricted items, designed to encourage local production and create employment opportunities for Nigerians. The seizures are part of ongoing efforts to curb economic sabotage and protect consumers and the nation’s overall health.
Iluyomade disclosed that five individuals arrested in connection with the seizures are in custody and undergoing further investigation. The agency will continue to work with security agencies to intensify surveillance along land borders to prevent illegal importation of prohibited goods.
Enforcement of truck marking directive
The director reiterated the government’s directive that trucks transporting edible oils be clearly marked and dedicated solely to that purpose. Enforcement of the directive has commenced, and any truck found violating the regulation will be impounded.
