Nigeria's Customs Service has categorically denied allegations of widespread smuggling, revenue leakage, recruitment impropriety, and manipulation of succession within its ranks. The denial came in response to an investigative report published earlier this month by an unspecified media outlet, which claimed that smuggling activity had surged along key border corridors and that there was misuse of a specific valuation code used for vehicle imports. The National Public Relations Officer of the service, Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, issued a detailed rebuttal on Thursday, asserting that the allegations were a mischaracterization of the agency's operational and administrative procedures. According to Maiwada, the claims of increased smuggling did not align with the service's documented enforcement actions, citing consistent records of seizures made in areas such as Seme, Idiroko, Ilaro, Ipokia, and Igbeti-Kishi. These regions have long been known for high volumes of cross-border traffic and have frequently been targeted by customs officials for inspections. The service emphasized that its mandate is to minimize smuggling rather than eliminate it entirely, acknowledging the complexity of controlling illicit trade flows. The controversy centered around the use of the 846 valuation code, a digital system employed for assessing vehicles with non-standard or non-compliant Vehicle Identification Numbers. This includes specialized heavy equipment, classic cars, and customized models. Maiwada clarified that the 846 code is a recognized feature within the customs portal, specifically tailored for these types of vehicles. Standard vehicles, on the other hand, undergo automatic assessment via manufacturer-linked databases. Vehicles processed under the 846 code require additional scrutiny by valuation officers and Area Controllers before clearance. The service also addressed concerns regarding the recruitment process for Assistant Superintendents of Customs II. It confirmed that the recruitment followed proper protocols set forth by the Nigeria Customs Service Board, adhering strictly to the NCS Act 2023 and the Federal Character Commission's guidelines. Candidates who passed initial screenings received provisional offers contingent upon medical evaluations, background checks, and formal acceptance. The service reiterated that all personnel appointments are made transparently and according to established norms. In response to accusations of favoritism in promotions and succession planning, the service maintained that such decisions are based purely on seniority, performance, and availability of positions, following established regulatory frameworks. Leadership training programs for Deputy Comptrollers were highlighted as integral components of the service's broader human resource development strategy, aimed at enhancing trade operations, intelligence gathering, and executive leadership skills. Funding for these training initiatives comes from both internal budgetary allocations and external partnerships with international organizations offering technical assistance. The service affirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability, stating that it operates under the oversight of multiple governmental bodies, including the Federal Ministry of Finance, the National Assembly, the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation, and various anti-corruption agencies. Despite the denials, recent operations by the Seme Border Command revealed the continued presence of illicit goods being intercepted. In a separate announcement, the command disclosed the seizure of a large quantity of expired noodles, narcotics, foreign rice, and explosive materials during a coordinated effort involving intelligence and surveillance. These findings underscore the ongoing challenges faced by customs officials in curbing smuggling activities despite their efforts to enforce regulations effectively.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.
Become a Supporter
NG
