The Nigeria Customs Service has rejected allegations of rising smuggling, revenue losses, recruitment irregularities and manipulation of succession within the agency, describing the claims as inaccurate representations of its operations and administrative procedures.
The NCS National Public Relations Officer, Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, stated this in a response issued on Thursday to an investigative report published by another media organisation on August 7, 2026.
The report had alleged increased smuggling activities along the Seme, Idiroko, Ilaro, Ipokia and Igbeti-Kishi corridors, as well as alleged manipulation of the 846 valuation code at the Apapa, Tin Can Island and PTML Area Commands.
Responding to the smuggling allegations, Maiwada said the claims did not reflect the service’s enforcement activities, noting that customs operatives continued to record seizures along the affected routes.
“Our responsibility is to reduce smuggling to the barest minimum, not to claim that it can be completely eradicated,” he said.
On the controversial 846 valuation code, the NCS explained that the digital mechanism was created for vehicles with unusual or non-compliant Vehicle Identification Numbers, including specialised heavy-duty equipment, classic cars and customised vehicles.
“The 846 code is an established digital valuation code within the Customs portal, specifically designated for vehicles with non-standard or non-compliant Vehicle Identification Numbers,” Maiwada said.
He explained that vehicles with standard identification numbers were automatically assessed using manufacturer-linked databases, while applications processed under the 846 code underwent additional approval by valuation officers and Area Controllers.
According to him, post-clearance audits could uncover discrepancies that would result in Demand Notices for the recovery of underpaid duties, as well as sanctions against operators found culpable.
Maiwada also said revenue collections at major ports had reached record levels following the adoption of the digital framework.
The service also dismissed claims of impropriety surrounding the recruitment of Assistant Superintendents of Customs II.
According to the NCS, the recruitment exercise was authorised by the Nigeria Customs Service Board and conducted in accordance with the NCS Act 2023 and guidelines issued by the Federal Character Commission.
It said successful applicants received provisional offers, subject to medical verification, background checks and formal acceptance.
The service equally rejected allegations that succession arrangements and promotions were being manipulated to favour certain officers.
“Succession and promotion within the Service are governed by established rules and career progression structures, not personal preference,” the Service said.
Maiwada explained that promotions were based on factors including seniority, merit, promotion examinations and available vacancies, in line with existing regulations.
He added that leadership training for Deputy Comptrollers formed part of the NCS human capital development programme, with the objective of improving trade operations, intelligence management and executive leadership.
He said approved training programmes and international exposure were financed through budgetary allocations or formal technical assistance agreements with partner institutions.
On demands for an independent probe, the Customs Service said it remained subject to oversight from the Federal Ministry of Finance, the National Assembly, the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation and anti-corruption agencies.
“The management maintains a firm, intolerant posture toward corruption, revenue leakage or administrative misconduct,” the Service stated.
It added that officers or other stakeholders found to have violated the law would face disciplinary measures and prosecution where appropriate.
The NCS further assured the public that it would cooperate with any legitimate investigation conducted by legally authorised government bodies.
