Authorities Reject Claims of Smuggling and Lost Tax Income

The Nigeria Customs Service has vehemently denied allegations of rampant smuggling, revenue leakage, improper recruitment practices, and manipulation of succession within its ranks, labeling these claims as a gross distortion of its enforcement efforts and administrative protocols.

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According to Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer, these allegations are a misrepresentation of the Service's activities, as stated in a response issued on Thursday to an investigative report published by an online medium on August 7, 2026.

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The report in question alleged a surge in smuggling along the Seme, Idiroko, Ilaro, Ipokia, and Igbeti-Kishi corridors, as well as manipulation of the 846 valuation code at the Apapa, Tin Can Island, and PTML Area Commands.

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Maiwada countered that the claim of increased smuggling is at odds with the Service's enforcement activities, citing the regular seizures made along the affected corridors as evidence.

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He emphasized that the Service's primary objective is to minimize smuggling to the greatest extent possible, acknowledging that complete eradication is unrealistic, as he stated, "Our responsibility is to reduce smuggling to the barest minimum, not to claim that it can be completely eradicated."

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The NCS explained that the 846 valuation code is a digital tool specifically designed for vehicles with non-standard or non-compliant Vehicle Identification Numbers, including specialized heavy equipment, classic vehicles, and customized models.

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Maiwada further clarified that the 846 code is an established digital valuation code within the Customs portal, designated for vehicles with non-standard or non-compliant Vehicle Identification Numbers, and that standard vehicles are assessed automatically through manufacturer-linked databases.

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He added that applications under the 846 code are subject to secondary approval by valuation officers and Area Controllers, and that any discrepancies discovered through post-clearance audits may result in demand notices for the recovery of short-collected duties and sanctions against offending operators.

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Maiwada also highlighted that revenue collections at major ports have reached historic levels under the digital framework, demonstrating the effectiveness of the Service's current systems.

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The Service addressed the recruitment of Assistant Superintendents of Customs II, stating that the exercise was conducted with the authorization of the Nigeria Customs Service Board and in line with the NCS Act, 2023, and Federal Character Commission guidelines.

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According to the Service, successful candidates were issued provisional offers subject to medical verification, background checks, and formal acceptance, ensuring a rigorous and transparent recruitment process.

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The NCS rejected allegations of succession manipulation and favoritism, asserting that promotions are based on seniority, merit, promotion examinations, and available vacancies, in accordance with established regulations, as Maiwada stated, "Succession and promotion within the Service are governed by established rules and career progression structures, not personal preference."

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Maiwada explained that leadership training for Deputy Comptrollers is a key component of the Service's human capital development strategy, aimed at strengthening trade operations, intelligence management, and executive leadership.

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He noted that approved training programs and international exposures are funded through budgetary allocations or formal technical assistance arrangements with partner institutions, demonstrating the Service's commitment to investing in its personnel.

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In response to calls for independent investigations, the NCS emphasized that it remains subject to oversight by the Federal Ministry of Finance, the National Assembly, the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation, and anti-corruption agencies.

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The Service reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a strong stance against corruption, revenue leakage, or administrative misconduct, as Maiwada stated, "The management maintains a firm, intolerant posture toward corruption, revenue leakage or administrative misconduct."

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The NCS assured Nigerians that it would cooperate with any legitimate investigation by statutory authorities and that any officer or stakeholder found culpable would face disciplinary action and prosecution in accordance with the law.