Kano/Jigawa Customs Intercepts Grains, Fish, Other Items

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

L-R: Comptroller Dauda Ibrahim Chana, Customs Area Controller Kano/Jigawa Command; Comptroller Chedi Wada, Controller Federal Operation Unit, Zone B and ACG Queen Ogbudu, Zonal Coordinator Zone B, during the tour

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kano/Jigawa Area Command has intercepted 798 big cartons of dried fish and 707 cartons of smaller sizes, 14 bags x 100kg of homegrown rice, 3 x 50kg bags of homegrown rice, 2 x 100kg bags of homegrown beans among others.

The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Dauda Ibrahim Chana  who disclosed above when the Zonal Coordinator of Zone B, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Queen Ogbudu paid a working visit to some locations within the area command, further disclosed  the seizure of some vehicles used as means of conveyance by the smugglers.

A statement by the Command Public Relations Officer, SC Saidu Nuruddeen quoted Chana as ascribing the seizures to the diligence and commitment of officers and men of the command.

ACG Ugbudu, CACs and other officers in a group picture with community leaders during the tour

The Kano/Jigawa Customs boss says the commitment of the command to curb illicit activities and protect local industries and improve food security is top priority.

“On different occasions, our various patrol teams intercepted and detained four trucks transporting a significant quantity of food items intended for illegal exportation. The intercepted items include 798 cartons of dried fish (big), 707 cartons of small dried fish, 14 bags of 100kg of homegrown rice, 3 bags of 50kg of homegrown rice, 2 bags of 100kg of homegrown beans, and others.

“These interceptions underscore the relentless efforts of the command in 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 command reiterates its unwavering commitment to combating smuggling activities across all entry points into the country. We urge members of the public to support our efforts by providing timely and actionable intelligence to facilitate the apprehension of smugglers and the seizure of contraband goods.”

While commending the dedication and professionalism of his officers and men involved in these operations, he notes that their vigilance and commitment to duty are instrumental in safeguarding the nation’s economic interests.

“We call on all stakeholders, including the media and relevant government agencies, to join hands with the NCS in the fight against smuggling and illicit trade practices. Together, we can build a more secured and prosperous Nigeria.”

The Coordinator Zone B who was accompanied on the tour by the Controller Federal Operations Unit, Zone B, Comptroller Chedi Wada and other Customs Area Comptrollers within the zone, visited Maigatari Border Station located in Jigawa State on February 19th, 2024.

At a meeting with the people of the border communities, ACG Obgudu urged residents of Maigatari community to abide by the law and remain vigilant regarding the ongoing border closure directive, to ensure that the ECOWAS directives and the national security of Nigeria is not compromised.

She also called on the leaders of the border community and their people to cooperate with the Nigeria Customs Service and the government, expressing optimism for a better tomorrow.

Also speaking, Comptroller Wada encouraged the people of Maigatari community to work together to combat smuggling activities in their area, noting that Maigatari Border Station is strategic in the map of national planning being a key economic and bilateral diplomatic artery in the northern region.

This is seven as some community leaders expressed their gratitude to the Nigeria Customs Service for their support and assistance during times of need.

“They also outlined some of their ongoing needs, appealing to Customs for assistance in improving the quality of life for community members.”

Responding, Comptroller commended the community leaders and peoples for their peaceful nature and assured them of productive partnership and engagement while working to address their needs.