The Ogun Area I Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has emphasized that its operations extend far beyond the popular narrative of chasing smugglers of rice and frozen poultry, stressing that its mandate covers critical national responsibilities such as revenue generation, border security, inter-agency collaboration, and the fight against illicit drugs.
The Area Controller, Comptroller Godwin Otunla, made this known on Thursday while receiving a delegation of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, led by the Chairman, Comrade Wale Olanrewaju, and Secretary, Comrade Bunmi Adigun, at the Command headquarters in Idiroko.
Otunla explained that the public often associates Customs’ activities only with seizures of rice and poultry, whereas the Service plays a much broader role in national development. He therefore urged journalists to help reshape public perception by highlighting the Service’s critical responsibilities in revenue mobilization, anti-smuggling intelligence, and national security.
“Customs is more than rice and turkey. We are a frontline institution in protecting Nigeria from harmful imports, curbing drug trafficking, generating revenue, and strengthening border security. The media has a crucial role to play in projecting this reality,” the Controller said.
Since assuming office in April, Otunla disclosed, the Command has recorded 144 seizures, including 7,151 wraps of cannabis and other hard drugs, while also generating ₦121,886,398 in revenue. He attributed these successes to intelligence-driven operations and the diligence of his officers.
On the handling of seized items, the Controller explained that while frozen poultry is destroyed for health reasons, rice is delivered as palliatives to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) at the discretion of the Federal Government.
Otunla also lamented the lack of electricity supply in Idiroko, describing it as a major challenge to operations despite the Command’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) investments in host communities. He noted that Customs manages a standard clinic open to the public, as well as primary and secondary schools providing affordable education for border communities.
Senior officers of the Command, in their remarks, cautioned Nigerians against falling victim to online fraudsters using the names and images of Customs officers to promote fake auction schemes. They clarified that the Service does not auction rice or other items in the manner often advertised on social media.
In his response, NUJ Ogun Chairman, Comrade Olanrewaju, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its relentless efforts in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders, curbing contraband, and boosting the economy. He assured the Controller of the union’s commitment to balanced reporting, stronger media engagement, and amplification of Customs’ activities for greater public awareness.
He also stressed the need to sustain a cordial relationship between Customs and host communities, urging continuous efforts to build trust, reduce tensions, and promote peace in border areas.
“The NUJ will continue to serve as a bridge between Customs and the public to deepen transparency and foster mutual understanding,” Olanrewaju said.
