The Kano Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) reports that it has seized four trucks loaded with food items as part of its ongoing efforts to combat smuggling.
The Spokesperson of the Service, Saidu Nuradeen, announced this development on Tuesday in Kano.
He stated that customs personnel intercepted the vehicles transporting a substantial quantity of food items destined for illegal export along the Hadejia-Taura-Ringim axis in Jigawa.
Nuradeen detailed the items seized, including 1,505 cartons of both large and small-sized dried fish, 17 bags of local rice varieties, and two bags of beans.
He emphasized that the seizure underscores the Service’s unwavering commitment to enforcing the border closure policy, aimed at safeguarding the nation’s economy and ensuring food security.
“Smuggling undermines legitimate trade channels, poses risks to public health, and deprives the government of much-needed revenue.
“The NCS reiterates its unwavering commitment to combat smuggling activities across all entry points into the country.
While encouraging members of the public to provide reliable information to help clamp down on smuggling, Nuradeen reiterated the Service’s dedication to curbing illicit activities to protect local industries and bolster food security.
Meanwhile, IQ Ibudu, the Zonal Coordinator for Zone B and Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, urged the Maigatari border community to remain vigilant and adhere to the land border closure directive in accordance with ECOWAS regulations.
She highlighted that the government has implemented proactive measures to tackle the social and economic challenges facing the country.
Additionally, Dauda Ibrahim Chana, the Controller of the Kano/Jigawa Area Command, urged border communities to collaborate with the Service and other security agencies to safeguard border areas. He assured them of the Service’s commitment to addressing their needs, particularly in terms of community relations.