By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kano–Jigawa Area Command, seized smuggled goods worth over ₦1.01 billion between January 1 and March 10, 2026, during intelligence-led operations, coordinated patrols, and surveillance across key border routes and at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport to protect public health, safeguard the economy, and prevent revenue leakages.
Customs Intercepts Pregabalin Capsules Worth ₦729.9 Million
Customs officers recovered 503 cartons of Pregabalin capsules, totaling over 15 million tablets, suspected to be unregistered pharmaceutical products. The drugs, discovered at Skyway Aviation Handling Company’s terminal, will be handed over to NAFDAC for further investigation.
Acting Area Comptroller Usman Umar Adamu confirmed that the seizure is part of the command’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal trade.
Wildlife Smuggling: Lion Cub and Pangolins Confiscated
The command also intercepted a live lion cub and pangolins, suspected to have been smuggled in violation of international wildlife protection laws. The lion cub has been handed to wildlife conservationists for rehabilitation, while suspects remain under investigation.
Foreign Currency and Precious Metals Confiscated
Customs officers intercepted another passenger carrying 22.8 kilograms of silver bars in luggage without proper declaration. Undeclared foreign currency seized at the airport included $106,500, 134,256 Saudi riyals, 28 Chinese yuan, and 20 Ghana cedis.
The items and suspects were handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation.
Smuggled Vehicles, Tyres, and Food Items
Other major seizures include:
- 2,765 cartons of smuggled spaghetti, second-hand clothing, and vegetable oil
- 1,447 used pneumatic tyres, valued over ₦28.2 million
- Two Dongfeng vehicles, with a combined value of ₦97.7 million
- Silver bars weighing 12.2 kilograms, hidden inside one vehicle
The seizures occurred along the Kano–Hadejia and Maiduguri routes, highlighting customs’ focus on border and airport enforcement.
Customs Urges Compliance and Praises Stakeholders
Acting Comptroller Adamu warned against smuggling and illegal trade, emphasizing that the command will continue strengthening surveillance and enforcement operations.
Martins Iluyomade, Director of Investigation and Enforcement at NAFDAC, praised the seizure for potentially saving millions of Nigerians from harmful drugs. Adamu also commended stakeholders, host communities, and media partners for supporting customs operations.
