Customs

Fate of customs officer who exposes smuggling ring at Nigerian borders unknown

Superintendent Owombo

—–as he remains in open detention 5 months after invitation to Abuja

The eyewitness reporter

The fate of the career of a customs officer, identified as Owombo Segun John, who exposed the smuggling cartel at the Nigerian borders with Cameron, Chad and Niger Republic, now hangs in the balance as the management of the Nigeria Customs Service keeps mum over his case five months after the incident.

The officer,Owombo, a superintendent of Customs (SC), in a viral video in November 2022, has openly described how he arrested some tankers laden with refined petroleum products being smuggled across the Nigerian borders at the Malabo checkpoint on Belel Road, Adamawa state on November 2nd, 2022 into the neighbouring countries of Cameroon, Chad and Niger Republic.

He has also alleged official collaboration with the smugglers and intimidation in an attempt to cover up through threats to his life.

Shortly after the viral video which the Nigeria Customs Service found embarrassing, the officer was said to have been invited to meet the Comptroller General of Customs, Col.( rtd) Hameed Ali in Abuja.

The service also alleged then that the officer was not of “stable mind” and would be subjected to tests to ascertain the level of his sanity.

However, five months after the officer was ” invited” to the Abuja Headquarters of the Customs, the customs management has kept mum over his matter, thus raising concerns over the career of the said officer.

However, it was alleged that the officer has been in “open” detention since he was whisked to Abuja in November 2022.

It was also gathered that the officer, Owombo, may have been down with an ailment as the series of tests carried out on him while in detention revealed he was allegedly suffering from kidney disease.

Also, the Customs management has allegedly slammed a query on the hapless officer for what was described as misconduct, divulging of official matters and activities targeted to tarnish the image of the service.

The memo issued to the officer was signed by SA BOMAI, Secretary/Ag. Assistant Comptroller-General (Board) reads “It has been brought to the notice of the Nigeria Customs Service Board (NCSB) that your attitude to work and general conduct has been unsatisfactory:

“That you Svc No 44836 SC SI OWOMBO, while serving at Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone D as a proper Officer, involved in a case of disclosing official information, violation of oath of secrecy and act of unbecoming of a Public Officer.

“This constitutes a Serious Misconduct under the Public Service Rule (PSR) 030402 (i), (n) and (w) punishable under 030401 with Dismissal.

“2. If you have any representations to make as to why necessary disciplinary action, including dismissal from the Service, should not be taken against you, you should submit same, to the satisfaction of the Board, in duplicate, through the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), within forty-eight (48) hours, of receipt of this query.

“Please note that if your representation is not received within this time limit, it will be taken to mean that you have none to make and necessary disciplinary action against you shall commence accordingly.

“3. You will be allowed access to documents relevant to your defence. 4. Acknowledge receipt of this query on the copy attached herewith.”.

Meanwhile, Abdullahi Maiwada, the new National Public Relations Officer of the Customs, claimed ignorance of the continued detention of Officer Owombo nor his state of health.

In a telephone conversation with our reporter, Maiwada warned that emotions and unsubstantiated claims could undermine and preempt the ongoing investigation into the matter.

“I am not aware if the officer you mentioned is in detention or if he is sick but what I know is the investigation is still going on into his case.

”We shouldn’t bring emotion into this matter because it is capable of undermining or preempting the investigation” he said.

When he was confronted with the fears in certain quarters that the officer may be dismissed in view of the recent query issued to him by the service, he said he was not aware of any query but disclosed that there are established processes and procedures to deal with such cases as indiscipline or insubordination in the service.

“Nobody can wake up and just dismiss an officer, there are established processes and procedures to follow. There must be an investigation, which is going on in this case.

”After that, the report of the investigation will be submitted to to disciplinary committee which will make its recommendations and send to the management which will in turn refer its own recommendations to the Board.

”You can see the system allows for fear hearing. So no officer can be dismissed without going through these processes and procedures in which he would have an ample opportunity to defend himself” the customs spokesman declared.

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Customs

Relief as Customs grants January 31st, 2026 extension for fast track operators to migrate to AEO

Funso Olojo

The Nigeria Customs Service has now extended the earlier December 31st, 2025 deadline for the migration of importers from fast track scheme to Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) to January 31st, 2026.

The extension, according to the Customs Authority, is meant to absorb more fast track operators into the AEO programme, deepen trade facilitation, secure supply chain and strengthen compliance in line with global standards.

As a result of the extension, Customs high command advised all existing Fast Track beneficiaries who are yet to complete their migration are to initiate and conclude their AEO applications through the official platform: aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng.

“The extended timeline provides operators with ample opportunity to meet programme requirements and secure AEO certification without disruption to their business operations.

” For enquiries, technical support, or guidance, stakeholders may reach the dedicated helpdesk via aeo@customs.gov.ng.

“Only companies duly certified under the AEO Programme will continue to access the facilitation privileges previously available under the Fast Track Scheme.

The AEO Programme is a globally recognised compliance-based initiative that grants trusted operators enhanced benefits such as expedited cargo release, reduced documentation, lower inspection levels, pre-arrival processing, and greater predictability in cross-border trade.

” The extension reinforces the Service’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and inclusive transition process for all stakeholders.

“This decision to fully migrate from the fast-track scheme to AEO is consistent with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards and is supported by Sections 108 to 111 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

To further support stakeholders and sustain ongoing sensitisation efforts, the Service will convene another comprehensive Stakeholders Engagement Forum to provide practical guidance on the migration process, demonstrate application procedures, and address compliance-related concerns.

The forum is scheduled for Thursday, 18 December 2025, at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Lagos, from 0900hrs to 1600hrs.

“Participants will have the opportunity to interact with AEO implementation teams and obtain detailed information on programme requirements, benefits, and operational modalities.

“The NCS urges all fast-track beneficiaries to take advantage of the extension period, participate actively in the engagement forum, and complete their transition to the AEO Programme.

” This proactive involvement not only ensures compliance with applicable regulations but also enhances the supply chain’s effectiveness and sustainability, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits all parties.

“The Service remains committed to driving trade efficiency, enhancing Nigeria’s global competitiveness, protecting national revenue, and promoting a predictable, transparent, and secure cargo clearance ecosystem that supports legitimate business” the agency declared.

Customs

Again, Customs, NDLEA Collabo intercepts 2,374 packages of Canadian Loud at Apapa Port

– Comptroller Oshoba warns illicit traders against daring resolve of Customs Officers at Yuletide season

Funso OLOJO

For the second times in a week, the impregnable wall of surveillance mounted by the combination of the Apapa Customs and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) against the exit of illicit drugs from Apapa Port has interdicted a 20- foot container marked FCIU 6369526 laden with 2,374 packages of cannabis concealed in 55 bags with a total weight of 1,187kg.

This interception, the product of a credible intelligence, came barely 5 days both agencies uncovered 25.5kg cocaine in a Brazilian flagged vessel.

The latest seizure was suspected to be

Canadian Loud, an expensive strain of cannabis concealed inside an imported vehicles.

Both agencies, in the course of joint examination, discovered the seizure which has been taken into the custody of the NDLEA.

A breakdown of the drugs indicates that they were packed in 500 grams per sachet

Speaking on the seizure, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, commended the robust synergy between the NCS and NDLEA while reiterating the service zero tolerance for smuggling.

” Few days ago, I stated that no consignment will exit our control from this port without due check. Our synergy as agencies of government will always put us ahead of criminal elements.

“No matter the volume of trade we are processing, we will never sacrifice national security and economy for any form of trade.

“While we are focused on collecting maximum revenue for government, our eagle eyed officers are activated to be alert at all times.

” Let me warn, once again for the umpteenth time, any trader- importer, exporter, freight forwarder or licensed customs agent that dares our resolve this Yuletide season and beyond ,will face the full wrath of the law.

“Investigations are ongoing on this seizure and we shall bring the perpetrators to book” Comptroller Oshoba said.

Customs

Comptroller Aliyu vows to sustain onslaught on smugglers as he assumes duties at FOU A

Funso OLOJO

Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, the new controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU ) A of the Nigeria Customs Service, has expressed his determination to sustain the ongoing stranglehold on smugglers and other illicit traders within the Zone

Comptroller Aliu make this pledge on Wednesday, December 10th, 2025 when he assumed duties as the helmsman of the Zone A anti- smuggling unit.

He expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi and his management team for the opportunity to serve in the unit.

The new controller also commended outgoing Controller of the Unit, Muhammed Shuaibu, who has been elevated to an Assistant Comptroller General for his outstanding service, achievement and pledged to consolidate on them for greater success.

“I assure you that we will consolidate on these achievements for even greater successes.

“The FOU Zone A plays a critical role in enforcing compliance, suppressing smuggling and safeguarding the economic integrity of our dear nation.

” I am aware of the enormous responsibilities that come from this position especially within a zone as strategic, dynamic and challenging as Lagos and its environment.

“However, I am confident that with the cooperation and professionalism of the gallant officers and men of this command , we will continue to fulfill this mandate diligently.”

Aliyu, who until his new disposition, was the Customs Area Controller of Oyo/ Osun Command, outlined other key areas of focus that will guide the unit under his watch to include professional conduct and discipline among officers, stakeholders engagement as well as capacity building and welfare of officers.

He said, “High standards of ethics, discipline and integrity as well as accountability will remain non-negotiable.

” Every officer must ensure that their actions reflect the core values of the service.

“We will deepen collaboration with sister agencies ,community leaders and the trading public to strengthen border security and facilitate lawful trade.

“The motivation and welfare of officers will be prioritized to ensure improved efficiency and operational readiness.”

Aliyu assured stakeholders and the trading public that justice, equity and fairness will guide the unit’s actions at all times.

He added that the unit’s operations under his watch would be underpinned by three cardinal objectives including management change, compliance management, and reputation management.

He called on all officers and stakeholders to join hands with him in this new role, promising to operate an open door policy.

Earlier, in his valedictory speech, outgoing Controller, ACG Shuaibu, highlighted the unit’s major successes during his seven-month tenure, which began on April 23, 2025.

He stated that the unit recorded a total of 476 interceptions, comprising 761 seized items with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over N10.151 billion.

Some of the notable seizures listed included: 23,000 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to 38 trailers).

98 ‘tokunbo’vehicles, 2,350 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa, and 1,820 jerry cans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

Others are 15 assorted rifles and 4,841 rounds of ammunition, two industrial drones, 25 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, and 4 cylinders of Russian-made explosives (each weighing 50kg), seizure of $30,000 and 110 CFA, totaling N31 million, which has been secured as final forfeiture to the Federal Government.

Additionally, he said the unit within the review period arrested 38 suspects and handed over eight containers of expired pharmaceutical products valued at N7.5 billion to NAFDAC, among other items.

Beyond enforcement, ACG Shuaibu stated that the unit recovered a total sum of N419,202,458.85 through demand notices issued on questionable declarations and undervalues, ensuring compliance with import and export regulations.

He attributed the successes to the unwavering support of stakeholders and dedicated officers, urging them to extend the same level of cooperation to Comptroller Aliu.

“I am confident that the foundation we have built will continue to flourish. Our shared objective remains to sustain prudent stewardship and strengthen the fight against smuggling.

” To my successor, I extend heartfelt congratulations on your appointment. I wish you great success and have no doubt that your leadership will usher in new perspectives and further advancement in these pivotal roles, ” he said.