CGC Adeniyi Warns against illegal importation as Customs intercepts 56 Containers loaded with Prohibited items at Onne
CGC Adeniyi Warns against illegal importation as Customs Intercepts 56 Containers Loaded With Prohibited Items at Onne
By Babatunde Aremu
The Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Adewale Adeniyi, MFR*, has vowed that the *Nigeria Customs Service, NCS*, will not allow the importation of prohibited items capable of undermining local production and threatening national security.
Adeniyi gave the assurance on Monday at the *Onne Port, Rivers State*, while addressing journalists during the public display of *56 containers* intercepted by the *Area II Command, Onne* for various infractions.
The seized containers, as shown in the display, were laden with prohibited and unwholesome goods including contraband that fall under the federal government’s import prohibition list.
According to the CGC, the seizures are part of deliberate efforts by the Service to protect Nigerian industries, create jobs and safeguard the economy from unfair competition through dumping of substandard goods.
_“We have a responsibility to protect local production. We cannot allow prohibited items to be dumped into our markets at the expense of our local industries. This seizure is a warning to unscrupulous importers,”_ Adeniyi said.
He commended the *Customs Area Controller, Onne Port*, officers and men of the Command for their vigilance, intelligence-driven operations and commitment to national interest.
The Customs boss noted that the interceptions were made possible through risk management, improved cargo scanning and collaboration with sister security agencies at the port.
He warned that all 56 containers will be subjected to due legal process, adding that the Service will continue to intensify its anti-smuggling operations across all ports to deter economic saboteurs.
Stakeholders at the briefing lauded the NCS for the breakthrough, describing it as a strong signal that Onne Port will not be a safe haven for illicit trade.
