Customs intensifies anti-smuggling operations against vegetable oil imports
By Emma Ujah, Abuja Bureau Chief
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has strengthened its campaign against the illegal importation of vegetable oil, announcing plans to deploy intelligence-led special operations designed to protect local manufacturers, encourage investment, preserve jobs, and promote growth within the agricultural sector.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting with key players in the vegetable oil industry at the Customs Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, reiterated the agency’s determination to curb smuggling through enhanced enforcement measures, improved intelligence gathering, and closer collaboration with industry participants.
In a statement released by the Service’s National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, the Customs boss emphasized that both the NCS and stakeholders in the vegetable oil sector share a common objective of safeguarding legitimate businesses, stimulating investment, and contributing to national economic growth.
Adeniyi noted that the fight against smuggling requires a coordinated effort involving government institutions and private-sector operators, particularly in industries that play a vital role in employment creation and economic development. He encouraged stakeholders to support Customs operations by providing reliable information on smuggling networks and illegal trading activities.
“Combating smuggling is an ongoing task that depends on intelligence, effective policies, and strong partnerships. We appreciate the support of stakeholders and remain committed to deepening cooperation with the private sector,” he stated.
Also addressing the gathering, the Deputy Comptroller-General responsible for Enforcement, Inspection, and Investigation, Timi Bomodi, outlined the agency’s successes in reducing the illegal entry of vegetable oil products into the country.
According to Bomodi, Customs intercepted 65 consignments of smuggled vegetable oil products in 2025 and an additional 23 seizures in 2026, with a combined Duty Paid Value (DPV) estimated at ₦1.314 billion.
He explained that most interceptions occurred along major border routes such as Seme and Idiroko, adding that monitoring and surveillance activities would be expanded to other vulnerable locations identified by the Service.
Representing industry stakeholders, Fatai Afolabi, praised the Customs Service for creating an avenue for engagement and consultation. However, he urged the agency to sustain its anti-smuggling efforts, noting that illegal imports continue to harm local manufacturers, discourage investors, and put thousands of jobs at risk.
“The smuggling of vegetable oil products weakens local production, reduces investor confidence, and threatens employment opportunities throughout the value chain,” Afolabi remarked.
The intensified enforcement campaign is part of the NCS’s broader initiative to strengthen domestic industries, boost government revenue, and protect Nigeria’s economic interests from the damaging effects of illicit trade.