Nigeria Customs Service

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a public advisory warning Nigerians against misusing United States visas, stressing that entry into the U.S. does not exempt visa holders from ongoing scrutiny.

In a press statement dated July 29, 2025, and signed by the National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the Service noted that the U.S. Government had raised concerns about Nigerians engaging in activities that contradict the declared purpose of their travel and the category under which their visas were issued.

“The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) wishes to alert the general public to the concerns raised by the Government of the United States of America on the need for Nigerians to desist from misusing entry visas granted by the US through activities that are inconsistent with the stated purpose of travel and visa classification,” the statement said.

The NCS emphasized that visa vetting continues beyond the point of entry.

It warned that U.S. immigration officials retain the authority to revoke visas at any time if holders are found in breach of immigration laws, import or export regulations, or other legal standards.

“U.S. authorities will continuously monitor the activities of visa holders, and visas can be revoked if holders are found to have violated US immigration protocols, import/export guidelines and other laws,” the Customs Service noted.

The advisory also reminded Nigerian travellers to comply with cash declaration rules when entering or exiting the country.

Individuals carrying more than $10,000 or its equivalent are required to declare it to the authorities. Travellers were also warned not to transport prohibited goods in their luggage.

“It is pertinent to also note that passengers are encouraged to be law abiding citizens and be of good conduct within and outside Nigeria,” the statement added.

Intending U.S. travellers were further advised to uphold integrity in all jurisdictions. According to the Customs, “whoever commits fraud in any jurisdiction will face legal consequences both under U.S. and Nigerian laws.”

The NCS disclosed that it is working closely with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure Nigeria remains in good standing.

The aim is to prevent the inclusion of Nigeria in a broader visa restriction list that could affect legitimate travellers.

“The Nigeria Customs Service wishes to reaffirm that it is working with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure that Nigeria meets the criteria to avoid enlistment into an expanded visa ban that will deny entry to well-meaning Nigerians wishing to travel to the US for their lawful business endeavours,” the statement concluded.

The Customs Service urged members of the public to take these reminders seriously in order to protect Nigeria’s global image and ensure unhindered travel for its citizens.

By Sabiu Abdullah

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, visited the State House Press Gallery in Abuja on Monday, July 27, 2025, to pay tribute to the late Dr. Leon Usigbe, the Abuja Bureau Chief of the Nigerian Tribune.

During the visit, which took place in a solemn atmosphere, CGC Adeniyi signed the condolence register opened by the State House Press Corps.

He described the late journalist as “a seasoned professional who carried out his duties with rare depth, integrity, and commitment to the ideals of journalism.”Clearly emotional, Adeniyi expressed the deep sense of loss felt by the media and broader society.

In his words, “We have lost a giant in the media landscape. Dr. Usigbe was a journalist of uncommon excellence whose dedication to truth and fairness made him a reference point for many in the profession.”

Known for promoting open engagement with the press, CGC Adeniyi extended his sympathies to Dr. Usigbe’s family, colleagues in the State House Press Corps, and the management of the Nigerian Tribune.

He encouraged them to draw strength from the life and values the late journalist embodied.Dr. Usigbe was widely regarded as one of the most respected political correspondents in the country.

His career was marked by sharp analysis and fearless reporting on governance and public affairs.

His death has triggered a wave of tributes from government officials, media professionals, and civic voices, all recognizing the void left by his absence.

The condolence register has continued to receive messages from high-ranking officials, veteran journalists, and friends, underscoring the influence Dr. Usigbe had in shaping ethical journalism and public discourse in Nigeria.

His legacy remains a beacon for professionalism and integrity in the field.

By Anas Abbas

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has once again been recognized for its commitment to excellence in public service and strategic communication.

Assistant Comptroller of Customs (AC) Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer, has been named among Nigeria’s top 50 PR and communications professionals in the prestigious 2025 PR Power List.

This significant recognition was announced on Wednesday by GLG Communications in partnership with the Guardian Newspaper.

The annual PR Power List honors public relations professionals who have significantly shaped narratives and driven impactful change within the communication sector, both in Nigeria and abroad.

AC Abdullahi Maiwada earned a spot in the Changemakers Category, which celebrates professionals who actively challenge conventional practices and introduce innovative communication strategies that yield measurable results.

In response to the honor, AC Maiwada expressed his gratitude, calling the recognition a humbling milestone that reflects the progress achieved in institutional communication within the NCS.

“This recognition is deeply humbling. It speaks to the commitment of the Service to modernize public engagement, enhance transparency, and build trust through effective storytelling and timely dissemination of accurate information,” he stated.

Maiwada emphasized that while he is honored to receive this accolade, the credit belongs to his dedicated team and the visionary leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

“His reforms have empowered us to think differently, act boldly, and represent the Service with dignity and professionalism,” he added.

As the NCS continues to enhance its public engagement strategies, this accolade serves as a testament to its ongoing efforts to foster transparency and trust with the Nigerian public.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the interception of a container carrying more than 10,000 donkey genitals along the Kaduna–Abuja Highway.

The disclosure was made by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, through the Service’s National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, during a press conference held at the government warehouse in Karu, Abuja, on Thursday, July 10, 2025.

Maiwada said the interception was part of ongoing efforts by the Customs to combat illegal wildlife trade through the activities of its Special Wildlife Office (SWO), which operates under the Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU).

He explained that the unit’s mandate includes intelligence gathering, profiling, investigations, and enforcement against criminal networks involved in trafficking endangered species.

According to CGC Adeniyi, officers of the SWO and CIU carried out the operation on June 5, 2025, at about 9:00 p.m. following actionable intelligence.

He noted that the interception highlights the continuous threat posed by transnational syndicates exploiting Nigeria’s trade routes.

He stated that in line with established procedures, the confiscated wildlife products would be transferred to the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to ensure inter-agency cooperation and environmental protection.

Adeniyi also reviewed the Service’s wildlife enforcement track record over the past year. He mentioned that in December 2024, six African Grey Parrots were confiscated in Kano, while in May 2025, Customs officials at Lagos Airport intercepted various animals including two live pangolins, five Mona monkeys, two Tantalus monkeys, one baby baboon, and another African Grey Parrot.

“In a separate operation, officers arrested a suspect in the Ikom area of Cross River State in connection with 213 parrot heads, six eagle heads, 128 hornbill heads, and other exotic species,” he added.

He further stated, “On 13 January 2025, tortoises were rescued and handed over to the National Park Service in Oyo State. We have also recorded seizures of taxidermy specimens such as life-sized lions, zebra hides, gorilla parts, and pangolin scales.”

Adeniyi also revealed that a container loaded with 119.4 kilograms of pangolin scales was intercepted in Calabar, and in Fufore, Adamawa State, 120 African Grey Parrots were rescued while a suspect was apprehended.

“These figures underscore the scale and sophistication of illegal wildlife trade. It is not just an ecological issue, but one tied to organised crimes, including money laundering, arms smuggling, and illicit currency flows,” he said.

He affirmed the Service’s commitment to curbing wildlife crime through advanced tools, noting that Customs is now investing in digital surveillance, cross-border cooperation, and species identification technologies.

“Our Wildlife Office’s investigations, including digital forensics and phone analysis of suspects, have strengthened our evidence base, with several prosecutions currently underway,” he stated.

Also speaking at the event, the Head of the Customs Wildlife Office, Assistant Comptroller Anuhu Mani, acknowledged the support of local and international conservation groups and neighbouring enforcement agencies.

He specifically appreciated organisations such as Focused Conservation, Wildlife Conservation Society, Wild Power Trust, Green Fingers, and Padrilas for their collaborative efforts.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has commended the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for their collaborative efforts in curbing illicit drugs and other prohibited items.

During a meeting at his Abuja office on June 3, 2025, Ribadu recognised the three agencies for their roles in a recent operation that led to the destruction of 206 containers and one trailer-load of illegal pharmaceuticals and narcotics.

He also confirmed the completion of an extensive investigation involving 50 additional containers, describing the exercise as a benchmark for effective cooperation in national security.

Praising the dedication of all parties involved, Ribadu said, “This is an acknowledgment of the good work you’ve been doing. Nigeria is changing. It won’t be business as usual anymore. We’ll go after the criminals who bring these poisons into our country.”

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, noted that the Service had previously declared a state of emergency on the smuggling of illicit pharmaceuticals.

He explained that close coordination among the agencies, with support from the NSA’s office, made it possible to swiftly detect and eliminate dangerous products.

“We are stronger together,” Adeniyi stated. “And we will remain vigilant to ensure these substances never make it into the wrong hands.”

Director-General of NAFDAC, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, said the operation was in line with Nigeria’s National Action Plan against drug abuse and the importation of unregistered pharmaceuticals.

She revealed that over 1,300 security personnel had been mobilised under the NSA’s orders to support Customs, NAFDAC, and NDLEA operations nationwide.

“These unregistered and unwholesome products are a danger to our women and children,” she cautioned.

“Our continued collaboration with Customs and NDLEA is saving lives.”Representing the NDLEA Chairman, Shadrac Haruna also pointed to the impact of an inter-agency committee set up by the CGC.

He noted that the committee had significantly helped in intercepting drugs and dismantling illegal storage facilities.

As part of the event, plaques and letters of commendation were presented to the heads of the three agencies.

The NSA was also handed a Certificate of Destruction for the confiscated items—a symbolic gesture reinforcing Nigeria’s resolve to fight the drug menace.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, has been appointed as the Vice Chair of the Body of Advisers of the Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG).

The appointment was announced during the ongoing 2025 Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

This year’s NPRW, organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), began on May 19 and will run until May 23.

The annual gathering brings together communication professionals, government officials, and other key players to explore how effective communication can support national development.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, formally opened the event on Tuesday, May 20. In his remarks, he restated the administration’s dedication to using strategic communication as a means of strengthening nation-building and drawing investment.

CGC Adeniyi’s new role shows the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) growing influence in the field of public communication.

Adeniyi welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the NRMG’s efforts.

“I consider it a privilege to be part of this important national assignment,” CGC Adeniyi said. “I have full trust in the capacity of this group, and I believe that with the calibre of individuals involved, a lot can be achieved in reshaping how Nigeria tells her story to her people and the world.”

He will work alongside other prominent figures, including Channels Television Chairman John Momoh, who now serves as Chair of the NRMG advisory group.

Together, the advisory team is expected to support the NRMG’s aim of presenting a unified and credible image of Nigeria both locally and internationally.

Also representing the NCS at the event, the agency’s National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, presented a paper titled “Advances in Government, Policy and Regulatory Communication.”

His presentation stressed the need for deliberate, multi-platform communication strategies in the public sector. He also shared how the NCS is adopting modern tools to improve public trust and operational transparency.

“The changing dynamics of governance and policy implementation require us to speak clearly, truthfully, and strategically. At Customs, we’ve learned that people don’t just want to be informed, they want to be understood and engaged,” Maiwada noted.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reinforced its partnership with Access Bank in a bid to strengthen trade facilitation and improve financial system alignment following the rollout of its Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), known as B’odogwu.

On Monday, April 14, 2025, officials from both organizations held a virtual meeting aimed at aligning operational structures and expanding cooperation.

The session was led by Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs overseeing ICT and Modernisation, Kikelomo Adeola.

She was joined by the Service’s National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, and Assistant Comptroller Bukola Omoniyi from the ICT/Modernisation Department.

Discussions centered on improving coordination between Customs and financial institutions.

Key areas of focus included streamlining payment procedures, enhancing data sharing, and enabling real-time processing of trade transactions using the B’odogwu platform.

DCG Adeola highlighted the importance of collaboration in the current phase of post-deployment consolidation.“The deployment of B’odogwu marks a new era in Customs administration,” she said.

“Our next priority is to strengthen partnerships with financial institutions like Access Bank to fully unlock the platform’s potential for automation, transparency, and trade efficiency.”

She explained that B’odogwu, which was developed locally, has already restructured Customs operations by merging procedures, automating declarations, and enabling real-time monitoring of transactions.

“To achieve optimal functionality, all players within the trade value chain must be fully integrated. This engagement with Access Bank is not just timely—it is strategic,” she noted.

Reacting to the Customs Service’s efforts, Olatunbosun Oladunke, Head of Global Trade at Access Bank, praised the agency’s digital initiatives and pledged continued cooperation.

“The B’odogwu platform represents a major leap in digital trade processing. Access Bank is fully aligned with the NCS vision and is committed to ensuring system compatibility—particularly in trade finance and payment automation,” he said.

In the same vein, Olakunle Aderinokun, Head of Media and Public Relations at Access Holdings/Access Bank, showed the value of engaging stakeholders and building public awareness.

“Public buy-in is critical to the success of any reform. We will collaborate with the Service to drive awareness of B’odogwu and educate stakeholders on the value it brings to the trading ecosystem,” he stated.

This engagement is part of the NCS’s larger goal to speed up its trade modernisation plan by fostering transparency, building strong partnerships, and embracing innovation.

With B’odogwu already in use, the agency is moving closer to achieving a fully digital, integrated, and internationally compliant customs system that aligns with Nigeria’s economic goals.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 34,470 litres of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) along border routes in Adamawa and Taraba states.

Acting on intelligence, operatives confiscated 1,149 jerrycans of PMS, along with a specially modified transport vehicle worth ₦4 million.

The total duty-paid value of the seized items stands at ₦37.78 million.During a press briefing in Jalingo, Taraba State, on Thursday, March 13, 2025, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, described the operation as a necessary response to the increasing complexity of transnational smuggling activities.

He stated, “Our intelligence-led operations have revealed that this corridor is a strategic transit point for cross-border petroleum diversion.

“The economic implications extend beyond revenue losses; it disrupts supply chains, fuels artificial scarcity, and undermines regional security.”

The Customs chief also warned against internal collusion, saying, “We have intelligence that some officers and members of border communities are aiding smugglers. We will dig deeper into this and ensure that those involved face the full wrath of the law.”

Reaffirming the agency’s determination to curb smuggling, the Comptroller of Customs for the Adamawa/Taraba Command, Garba Bashir, highlighted the dangers of illicit trade.

“Smuggling weakens legitimate trade, encourages revenue loss, increases crime, and endangers our citizens. The operatives of Operation Whirlwind, under the leadership of the Comptroller General, have intensified efforts to dismantle these smuggling networks,” he stated.

The Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Hussaini Ejibunu, emphasized the effectiveness of intelligence-driven enforcement, noting that the seizures were completed in just three hours.

“This is an intelligence-based operation, not one conducted at fixed checkpoints. The results you see today confirm that Taraba is being used as a conduit for smuggling,” he explained.

He urged residents to support the anti-smuggling campaign, adding, “There is no hiding place for criminals. Anyone caught will be prosecuted. We urge the public: if you see something, say something.”

To address the impact of smuggling-related fuel shortages, the Comptroller General of Customs has ordered that the confiscated petroleum products be sold to the public at a subsidized rate.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service Technical and Hangar Services Limited (NCT&HSL) successfully held its maiden Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, 18 February 2025, in Abuja.

The event brought together key stakeholders from the aviation, customs, and public sector logistics industries to discuss operational development and expansion strategies.

Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, commended the company’s achievements, stating, “It is evident that the company has made significant strides in this short period, surpassing its achievements in the preceding year. The company’s future prospects are even more important to us.”

He also expressed confidence in the company’s investments, noting, “On my way back from Ilorin yesterday, I made a quick visit to the hangar and saw how busy it was. This underscored that we are investing in the right direction”.

The Ministry of Finance has expressed interest in further investing in the company, which is expected to provide fresh capital, expertise, and networks to drive growth.

Adeniyi noted, “As the majority shareholder, our expectation is that the company will continue to grow as a profit-yielding entity, providing value to our stakeholders and shareholders”.

The Managing Director of NCT&HSL, Capt. Kuhi Mbaya, highlighted the company’s role in modernizing customs operations and reiterated its commitment to balancing workforce competence with financial prudence.

“We are strategically employing qualified and competent staff while keeping a watchful eye on our salary overheads so that we do not overextend our financial capabilities,” he explained.

The company is adopting smarter financial strategies for maintaining equipment, exploring cost-effective alternatives such as leasing or collaborating with other organizations to share resources.

Mbaya assured stakeholders of the company’s commitment to operational excellence and financial sustainability, stating, “We continue to seek innovative ways to optimize our expenditure while maintaining the highest safety and compliance standards”.

At the closing session of the AGM, the board appointed new auditors and reappointed directors after due consideration.

The meeting set the stage for long-term planning, including upgrading aircraft maintenance facilities, improving ground handling services, and expanding the NCS fleet to support customs enforcement operations.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has disclosed that it received an overwhelming 573,519 applications for its 2024/2025 recruitment exercise within just one week of opening the application portal.

This announcement follows the Federal Government’s recent approval of 3,927 new recruitments for the service.

The Minister of Finance, Mr. Olawale Edun, had earlier revealed that the government had authorized the recruitment, which aimed to strengthen the workforce of the NCS.

Providing an update, the NCS spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, gave a detailed breakdown of the applications submitted for both general duty and support staff positions, spanning multiple ranks.

“I want to break down the number of people that applied. We have two categories of officers: we have the support staff who are professionals, and we have the general duty.

“For the general duty, we have three categories of ranks. For the general duty under the superintendent cadre, we have 249,218,000 candidates who applied. Under the superintendent cadre support staff, we have 27,722,000 with HNDs and university degrees.

“For the inspector cadres, those expected to apply with their National Certificate for Education (NCE) or National Diploma, we have 115,634 applying for the general duty, and for support staff, we have 12,952.

“As for the customs assistants, these are those who are supposed to come in with secondary school certificates.

“There are two categories: those who have basic five-credit results with Maths and English, and those without Maths and English. For the general duty, we have 153,593,000, while for the support staff, we have 14,400,” Maiwada explained.

The recruitment exercise has drawn significant public attention due to the sheer number of applicants vying for the limited positions, highlighting the competitive nature of government employment in Nigeria.