Kirikiri Customs generates N19.4bn in June, seizes expired vape worth N809.7m

In June 2026, the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) achieved a notable milestone, generating N19.4 billion in revenue, a 35 per cent increase compared to the N14.36 billion collected in June 2025. Alongside this financial success, the command intercepted a 40-foot container filled with expired disposable vape products valued at N809.7 million. The seizure highlights the ongoing efforts by Nigerian customs officials to enforce compliance and protect public health through rigorous inspections and intelligence-led operations. The revenue boost was attributed to several factors, including the dedication of customs officers, increased stakeholder compliance, improved trade facilitation measures, and the implementation of intelligence-driven strategies designed to enhance revenue collection. According to Deputy Comptroller of Customs Bolaji Adigun, who serves as the Acting Customs Area Controller, the command's June 2026 revenue stood at N19.404 billion, marking an increase of N5.04 billion over the previous year's figure of N14.363 billion. During routine cargo examinations, which form part of the command's intelligence-led enforcement operations, officers discovered the 40-foot container. Upon closer inspection, they found 18 pallets of disposable vape products, consisting of 484 cartons holding a total of 182,340 units. These products were identified as having expiry dates ranging from 2022 to 2026, making them unsuitable for human consumption and potentially harmful to public health. Following the discovery, arrangements have been initiated to transfer the seized items to the relevant government agency responsible for regulatory actions and proper disposal. Adigun emphasized the importance of strict adherence to import regulations by importers and licensed customs agents, encouraging them to utilize the NCS's Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme and Advance Ruling System to improve compliance and facilitate legitimate trade activities. The Acting Controller also confirmed that the command will continue deploying intelligence-led operations, risk management techniques, and thorough cargo examinations to prevent prohibited, falsely declared, and unsafe goods from entering the country. This approach aims to maintain high standards of enforcement while ensuring smooth trade processes. Adigun extended his gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, along with the management of the service, officers within the command, licensed customs agents, terminal operators, partner government agencies, and the media for their continued support. He reiterated the command's commitment to maintaining its accomplishments in revenue generation, trade facilitation, and enforcement, all while safeguarding the nation's economic interests and public health. The successful interception of the expired vape products underscores the critical role played by the NCS in monitoring and regulating imports to ensure they meet safety standards and contribute positively to the national economy. As the command continues to focus on enhancing its operational efficiency and effectiveness, it remains dedicated to upholding the integrity of Nigeria's trade environment and protecting consumer welfare.