The Nigerian Customs Service, Area 2 Command in Onne, Rivers State, has said that it generated over N190bn as revenue in the first quarter of 2025.

It stated that during the period under review, its officials seized 20 containers of contraband items illegally imported into the country, worth over N10.2bn.

The Customs Area Controller, Area 2 Command, Onne, Comptroller, Mohammed Babandede, disclosed this at a news briefing in Onne on Wednesday.

Babandede also said the total products exported within the period, comprising mainly agricultural products and solid minerals, stood at over N2.3bn.

He stated, “These seizures are products of courage, bravery, a high level of integrity, and the self-determined posture of the officers to be patriotic to their oath of allegiance, exhibited through objective and careful examination, meticulous documentary checks, and professionalism.

“The cumulative duty paid value of the seized goods presented is worth N10.2bn. The sum of N190,569,212,397.42 was collected as revenue during the first quarter (January-March) of the year 2025.”

Babandede continued, “During the first quarter of the year 2024, a total of N162,705,313,561.48 was collected.

This shows remarkable improvement with a difference of N27,864,668,442.61, which represents a 17.12 per cent increase against the first quarter of 2024

“The Command exported 1,274,695 metric tonnes, comprising mostly agricultural products and solid minerals. The total products exported stood at a value of N2,345,268,122.”

The Onne Area 2 Customs Command boss warned against smuggling, emphasising that those found wanting would be made to face the law.

Babandede reiterated the commitment of the NCS to contributing its quota to the development of the country and called for sustained partnership with stakeholders.

He said, “It is important to know that importing illicit drugs and other prohibited wares into the country can have serious consequences for both the public and society.

“Worthy of note is the fact that perpetrating any act of illegal activity is criminal and remains punishable under the Nigeria Customs extant laws, with the legal consequence of being punishable with either a fine or imprisonment, or both, as the case may be.

“The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to its role in contributing to the country’s economic development and security. I urge compliant stakeholders to sustain their partnership and cooperation with the service in achieving its goals.”

Our correspondent, who covered the briefing, reports that the seized items include illicit drugs, used clothes (bales), and foodstuffs.