Customs Warn Importers Over False Declarations, Shift to Intelligence-Driven Checks
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, has issued a strong warning to importers and clearing agents against making false declarations, as it announced a new focus on intelligence-driven operations to tackle smuggling.
During a meeting on Thursday with members of the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN) in Ikeja, Lagos, Customs Area Controller Mohammed Shuaibu revealed plans to reduce unnecessary container checks on highways and instead rely on strategic intelligence to combat smuggling more effectively.
Why is Nigeria Customs changing its strategy?
According to Shuaibu, random checks and roadblocks will be minimized as the unit turns to targeted intelligence-led enforcement, ensuring that only suspicious consignments are examined. This, he said, will also help ease the process of doing business in Nigeria.
Shuaibu emphasized that although the zone operates as an anti-smuggling command, it also plays a key role in facilitating trade. He stressed the need for transparency in import declarations, noting that most interventions by customs officers stem from dishonest submissions by importers or agents.
“If you see such officers coming out, it is because of the insincerity of the declarants or the importers,” he stated. “We’re shifting to a smarter approach — intelligence-based. That way, we don’t inconvenience compliant traders.”
He also noted that in the coming days, the command will publicly showcase seized items and the individuals involved, serving as a deterrent to others in the system. The controller further highlighted the importance of collaborating with other agencies, citing recent joint operations with the Nigerian Army as an example.
The President of SCAN, Moses Ebosele, praised the customs unit for its efforts in protecting Nigeria’s economy and maintaining vigilance against illicit imports.
With this shift, the Nigeria Customs Service is positioning itself not only as a force against economic sabotage but also as a facilitator of smoother trade operations, provided businesses play by the rules.
