Nigeria Customs Rejects Smuggling, Revenue Leakage Claims, Defends Reforms

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has dismissed allegations of intensified smuggling, revenue leakage, recruitment impropriety and succession manipulation, describing the claims as a misrepresentation of its operational and administrative processes.

The Service was responding to an investigative report published by SaharaReporters on August 7, 2026, which alleged increased smuggling along the Seme, Idiroko, Ilaro, Ipokia and Igbeti-Kishi corridors in Ogun and Oyo states. The report also raised concerns over Customs valuation procedures, particularly the use of the “846” Extended Procedure Code for vehicles with non-standard Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs).

In a statement, the National Public Relations Officer, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada, said the alleged surge in smuggling did not reflect the reality of enforcement operations along the affected corridors.

According to him, the frequency and volume of seizures routinely presented during media briefings by Area Controllers demonstrate that Customs remains active in preventing the illegal movement of vehicles and other goods. He said the Service was committed to enforcing government restrictions while facilitating legitimate trade.

On the 846 valuation code, Maiwada explained that it is a digital mechanism designed for vehicles that cannot be automatically assessed through the standard VIN-based valuation system. Such vehicles include specialised heavy equipment, classic cars, customised vehicles and vintage models.

He said standard vehicles are assessed automatically through systems linked to global manufacturer databases, while applications under the 846 code undergo mandatory secondary approval by Valuation Officers and Area Controllers.

The NCS further stated that post-clearance audits routinely identify discrepancies, leading to Demand Notices for unpaid duties and, where necessary, suspension of offending clearance licences. It added that revenue collections at the Apapa, Tin Can Island and PTML Area Commands had reached historic highs under the current digital oversight framework.

On the recruitment of Assistant Superintendents of Customs II, the Service rejected claims that the recently released list lacked statutory approval. It said the recruitment process, including applications, computer-based testing, physical screening and shortlisting, was conducted under the supervision and authorisation of the Nigeria Customs Service Board, in compliance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and Federal Character Commission guidelines.

The Service also defended its leadership training programmes, saying they are intended to strengthen trade operations, intelligence management and executive capacity. It said such programmes are funded through approved government budgets or formal technical assistance arrangements.

On allegations of succession manipulation, the NCS said promotions are governed by the Public Service Rules, the 2023 Customs Act and established career progression requirements, including seniority, merit, promotion examinations and available vacancies.

The Service said it welcomes legitimate scrutiny from the Presidency, National Assembly and anti-corruption agencies, including the EFCC, ICPC and ONSA.

It reaffirmed its “intolerant posture” toward corruption, revenue leakage and misconduct, warning that officers or stakeholders found culpable would face disciplinary action and prosecution in accordance with the law.