The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kano/Jigawa Area Command, has intercepted precious metals worth ₦116.28 million, allegedly smuggled into the country, at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, reinforcing efforts to secure borders and facilitate legitimate trade.
The Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Usman Adamu, handed over 22.80kg of suspected silver bars and a suspect, Abduelhafeez Ibrahim, to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Kano. The seizure occurred during routine baggage screening when officers flagged the passenger’s luggage for secondary inspection.
Adamu said the suspect, a holder of a Republic of Sudan passport, was scheduled to fly to the United Arab Emirates on Ethiopian Airlines. He claimed the items were sourced from Niger Republic but could not provide export documents or declarations.
“The unlawful movement of regulated items across our borders is a violation of statutory provisions and attracts appropriate sanctions,” Adamu stated.
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EFCC Kano Zonal Director Friday Ebelo commended Customs officers for their professionalism and said the Commission would conduct a thorough investigation.
In a related development, the Command has stepped up collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to improve enforcement and streamline trade processes.
Adamu said: “Every action we take aligns with the development goals of Nigeria. Whether in trade facilitation, revenue generation, enforcement, or border security, the objective is to strengthen the economy and protect our sovereignty.”
The Kano/Jigawa Command supervises major trade corridors, including the Dala Inland Dry Port and Maigatari international border, and generated over ₦101 billion in revenue in 2025, exceeding its target by 5.71%.
Adamu emphasised that inter-agency coordination and digital reforms are key to enhancing security, optimising resources, and ensuring efficient cargo clearance.
“Synergy is not optional. When institutions coordinate effectively, we strengthen enforcement and achieve better results,” he said.
The Customs Command reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating lawful trade while enforcing compliance to protect national revenue and economic integrity.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
