Seme Customs command refutes misleading claims on border activities

By Godwin Oritse

The Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has noted an online publication currently circulating with claims about its operations along the Seme corridor. Upon review, the Command finds the allegations baseless and not reflective of its procedures or the conduct of its personnel. It therefore urges the public to ignore the report, as it does not represent the realities on ground.

In a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Isah Suleiman said that since the assumption of office by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, in September of this year, enforcement activities along the Lagos–Abidjan corridor have been significantly strengthened through enhanced collaboration with the Nigerian Military and other sister security agencies. The reactivation of the Joint Border Security Meeting (JBSM) has further reinforced joint operations aimed at curbing smuggling.

According to the statement, As enforcement intensifies during the yuletide season, the Command is aware that individuals whose illegal activities have been disrupted may resort to misinformation and sensational reporting. While these attempts are unsurprising, they will not distract the Command from carrying out its lawful duties.
Part of the statement reads:”For clarity, between September and date, the Command recorded the seizure of over 4,000 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to approximately seven trailer loads), Five trailer loads of expired flour, endangered species (Lion Cub and Patas Monkeys) over 2000 parcels of Cannabis Sativa (marjuana), among other seizures. These results reflect the renewed operational drive to protect Nigeria’s economic interests.

“Under the leadership of Comptroller Adenuga, the revenue of the Command has improved significantly, rising from average of 500 and 600 million Naira monthly revenue collection to over ₦1.5 billion in September and exceeding ₦2.5 billion in October; an increase of more than 300%. This growth is attributed to blocked leakages, strengthened enforcement, and enhanced facilitation of legitimate trade.

“The Seme Area Command reaffirms its commitment to professionalism, transparency and zero tolerance for corruption or misconduct. With the continuous support of the Comptroller-General of Customs and the Management Team, the Command will sustain its efforts in safeguarding national security, enforcing compliance and facilitating lawful trade through the Lagos-Abidjan corridor.”

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