The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, seized 1,202 kegs of smuggled vegetable oil worth ₦120.2 million across the state.
The Command’s spokesperson, Mr Chado Zakari, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Abeokuta.
The seizures followed two intelligence-led operations on March 19 and March 24.
According to Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, the operation aimed to curb smuggling and support local producers.
“These seizures are a significant win for the economy. By removing illicit goods from the market, we are curbing unfair competition and supporting local manufacturers,” Afeni said.
He noted the operation followed earlier interceptions of 2,539 kegs on March 11 and 2,090 kegs on Dec. 16, 2025.
In a related move, the command handed 285 sacks of mica stones, each 50kg and valued at ₦104.78 million, to the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.
Zakari said the minerals were intercepted during a routine anti-smuggling operation.
He noted that the seizure reflected the command’s mandate to prevent illegal export of solid minerals and safeguard government revenue.
Afeni, represented by Assistant Comptroller Emmanuel Onyeasor, said the illegal trade in minerals poses risks to both economic stability and national security.
He added that the handover underscores inter-agency collaboration in enforcing mining and environmental regulations.
A Ministry representative, Mr Abimbola Olubumi, commended the command for vigilance and professionalism.
Olubumi said the ministry would conduct further geological analysis and integrate the minerals into the national database as part of efforts to strengthen regulation of the mining sector.
He also noted improved export activities in March 2026, reflecting increased efficiency in trade processes and enhanced monitoring along the Idiroko border axis.
