According to data released by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), a total of N3.02 billion worth of smuggled rice was seized between May 2022 and May 2023. During this period, the NCS confiscated 206,835 bags of rice in various operations aimed at curbing smuggling activities.
The NCS recorded a total of 1,745 seizures during the 13-month review, with the highest number of seizures occurring in June 2022, totaling 13,775 bags worth N260.54 million.
September 2022 saw the largest number of seized bags, with 96,312 bags worth N295.88 million. The highest value of seizures, worth N420.84 million, was recorded in February 2023, comprising 12,239 bags.
The continuous smuggling of rice has raised concerns among local rice farmers, who have called on the NCS and the federal government to intensify efforts in combating smugglers.
In response, the NCS emphasized that while it is making significant progress in its fight against smuggling, completely eradicating smuggling activities is challenging due to the vast and porous nature of Nigeria’s borderlines. However, the NCS assured that it is continuously strengthening its human resources and facilities to minimize smuggling to the best extent possible.
The NCS provided the data as evidence of its commitment to curbing smuggling, highlighting the number of seizures, quantity, value, and duty-paid value of the seized rice.
Overall, the NCS remains dedicated to tackling smuggling and protecting local industries, although completely eliminating smuggling remains a persistent challenge.
