From Mustapha Adamu, Kano
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has rejected allegations of intensified smuggling, revenue leakage, recruitment irregularities and manipulation of succession within the Service, describing the claims as a misrepresentation of its operational and administrative activities.
The allegations were contained in an investigative report published by SaharaReporters on August 7, 2026. The report alleged that smuggling had increased along the Seme, Idiroko, Ilaro, Ipokia and Igbeti-Kishi corridors in Ogun and Oyo states.
It also raised concerns about weaknesses in Customs valuation procedures, particularly the use of the “846” Extended Procedure Code for vehicles with non-standard Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs), alleging that the system was being exploited to under-declare and undervalue imported vehicles at the Apapa, Tin Can Island and PTML Area Commands.
However, the NCS, through its National Public Relations Officer (NPRO), Deputy Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada, dismissed the allegations.
Maiwada said claims of a “surge” in smuggling along the affected land border corridors did not reflect the Service’s enforcement activities.
He said the frequency and volume of seizures recorded along the corridors, which are routinely presented during media briefings by Area Controllers, contradicted claims of unchecked movement of vehicles and trucks into the country.
According to him, the NCS remains committed to enforcing existing Federal Government restrictions and prohibitions while facilitating legitimate trade.
Customs explains use of 846 valuation code
On the controversial 846 valuation code, the Service explained that it is an established digital tool on the Customs portal designed for vehicles with non-standard or non-compliant VINs.
Maiwada said the category includes specialised heavy equipment, classic vehicles, customised vehicles and vintage models that cannot be automatically assessed through the standard VIN valuation database.
He explained that standard vehicles are processed automatically through a system linked to global manufacturer specification databases, thereby limiting human discretion.
He added that applications processed under the 846 code are subjected to mandatory secondary approval by designated Valuation Officers and Area Controllers.
“Discrepancies uncovered during post-clearance audits routinely trigger Demand Notices for the recovery of short-collected duties and the suspension of offending clearance licences,” he said.
Maiwada further stated that revenue collection at the Apapa, Tin Can Island and PTML Area Commands had reached historic highs under the current digital oversight framework.
Customs defends recruitment process
The NCS also dismissed allegations that the recently released list of Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (ASC II) recruits was published without statutory approval.
The Service said the recruitment process, from application and computer-based testing to physical screening and final shortlisting, was conducted under the supervision and authorisation of the Nigeria Customs Service Board.
According to the NCS, the exercise complied with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and guidelines of the Federal Character Commission.
The Service clarified that the published list contains candidates who received provisional offers of appointment, subject to medical verification, background checks and formal acceptance.
Service explains leadership training
Addressing concerns over a recent leadership training programme for Deputy Comptrollers, the NCS described human capital development as a key component of its strategic vision.
It said the training was aimed at modernising trade operations, strengthening intelligence management and preparing officers for executive responsibilities.
The Service explained that official training programmes and international exposures, whether conducted locally at the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, Gwagwalada, or abroad, are funded through approved Federal Government budgetary allocations or formal bilateral technical assistance arrangements with partner institutions, including the World Customs Organisation.
Customs denies succession manipulation
The Service also rejected allegations that its leadership was manipulating succession by favouring particular officers or groups.
It specifically dismissed claims that officers recruited in 1994, 1995 and 1997 were being sidelined in favour of officers from the 2009 intake.
According to the NCS, promotion and succession within the Service are governed by the Public Service Rules, the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and established career progression procedures.
It said the processes are based on seniority, merit as demonstrated through promotion examinations and the availability of established vacancies, rather than personal preferences.
The Service further stated that promotion exercises under the current leadership had become more regular, transparent and prompt, adding that no qualified officer had been denied promotion because of the year of recruitment.
Customs welcomes independent scrutiny
Responding to calls by some stakeholders for investigations by the Presidency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the National Assembly and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the NCS said it remained subject to statutory oversight.
The Service said it operates under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Finance and is accountable to the National Assembly, the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation and relevant anti-corruption agencies.
It added that it regularly cooperates with parliamentary committees, the EFCC, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the ONSA.
“The management maintains a firm, intolerant posture toward corruption, revenue leakage, or administrative misconduct,” the Service stated.
It added that any officer or stakeholder found to be involved in unethical conduct would face appropriate disciplinary measures and prosecution in accordance with the law.
The NCS also said it would welcome and fully cooperate with any investigation initiated by legally authorised oversight or anti-corruption bodies.
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