Aliyu takes over Customs FOU Zone ‘A’, vows to intensify intelligence-driven anti-smuggling operations

Comptroller Gambo Aliyu has formally assumed leadership of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) with a pledge to intensify intelligence-driven operations in the fight against smuggling and and other forms of illicit trade that threaten national security and economic growth.

Speaking on Wednesday at the handover ceremony held at the unit’s headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos, Comptroller Aliyu expresses gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi and his management team for the opportunity to serve in the unit.

He also commended outgoing Controller of the Unit, Muhammed Shuaibu, who has been elevated to an Assistant Comptroller General for his outstanding service, achievement and pledged to consolidate on them for greater success.

“I assure you that we will consolidate on these achievements for even greater successes. The FOU Zone A plays a critical role in enforcing compliance, suppressing smuggling and safeguarding the economic integrity of our dear nation I am aware of the enormous responsibilities that come from this position especially within a zone as strategic, dynamic and challenging as Lagos and its environment.

“However, I am confident that with the cooperation and professionalism of the gallant officers and men of this command we will continue to fulfill this mandate diligently, ” he said.

Aliyu outlined other key areas of focus that will guide the unit under his watch to include professional conduct and discipline among officers, stakeholders engagement as well as capacity building and welfare of officers.

He said, “High standards of ethics, discipline and integrity as well as accountability will remain non-negotiable Every officer must ensure that their actions reflect the core values of the service.

“We will deepen collaboration with sister agencies community leaders and the trading public to strengthen border security and facilitate lawful trade.

“The motivation and welfare of officers will be prioritized to ensure improved efficiency and operational readiness.”

The new CAC assured stakeholders and the trading public that justice, equity and fairness will guide the unit’s actions at all times.

He added that the unit’s operations under his watch would be underpinned by three cardinal objectives including management change, compliance management, and reputation management.

Aliyu called on all officers and stakeholders to join hands with him in this new role, promising to operate an open door policy.

Earlier, in his valedictory speech, outgoing Controller, ACG Shuaibu, highlighted the unit’s major successes during his seven-month tenure, which began on April 23, 2025.

He stated that the unit recorded a total of 476 interceptions, comprising 761 seized items with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over N10.151 billion.

Some of the notable seizures listed included: 23,000 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to 38 trailers).
98 ‘tokunbo’vehicles, 2,350 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa, and 1,820 jerry cans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

Others are 15 assorted rifles and 4,841 rounds of ammunition, two industrial drones, 25 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, and 4 cylinders of Russian-made explosives (each weighing 50kg), seizure of $30,000 and 110 CFA, totaling N31 million, which has been secured as final forfeiture to the Federal Government.

Additionally, he said the unit within the review period arrested 38 suspects and handed over eight containers of expired pharmaceutical products valued at N7.5 billion to NAFDAC, among other items.

Beyond enforcement, ACG Shuaibu stated that the unit recovered a total sum of N419,202,458.85 through demand notices issued on questionable declarations and undervalues, ensuring compliance with import and export regulations.

He attributed the successes to the unwavering support of stakeholders and dedicated officers, urging them to extend the same level of cooperation to Comptroller Aliu.

“I am confident that the foundation we have built will continue to flourish. Our shared objective remains to sustain prudent stewardship and strengthen the fight against smuggling. To my successor I extend heartfelt congratulations on your appointment I wish you great success and have no doubt that your leadership will usher in new perspectives and further advancement in these pivotal roles, ” he said.