By Abasi Ita
The Nigeria Customs Service has stepped up its anti smuggling campaign in Cross River State as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s blue economy, insisting that illicit activities along the eastern waterways will not be tolerated.
The resolve was reiterated on Tuesday in Calabar during a media briefing by the Customs Area Controller of the Eastern Marine Command, Comptroller Anderson Jaja.
Comptroller Jaja said the Command has deployed targeted and proactive enforcement strategies that have led to a noticeable decline in smuggling activities within its operational area.
He noted that the Service is committed to facilitating legitimate trade through approved channels, adding that the recent addition of six operational boats to the Command’s fleet has significantly enhanced patrol and enforcement capacity across the waterways.
According to him, the success of the intensified operations was reflected in the volume of goods recently impounded by the Command.
The impounded items include textile materials, used clothing, tyres, pharmaceutical products, scrap metals, consumable beverages, wines, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, which he said undermine the nation’s economy and pose public safety concerns.
Comptroller Jaja emphasised that the Command operates a zero tolerance policy on smuggling, stressing that no space would be allowed for illegal trade to flourish under his leadership.
He disclosed that the duty paid value of the impounded items amounted to N172,497,203.
He said the seizures send a strong signal to smugglers that the Eastern waterways are being closely monitored as part of ongoing efforts to sanitise the maritime environment.
The Controller added that the Command remains focused on promoting lawful commerce and strengthening collaboration with host communities, while deploying all available resources to curb smuggling activities in the maritime sector.
He urged business operators in the region to engage with the Nigeria Customs Service through the Comptroller General’s trade consultation initiative, assuring that the Service is ready to support compliant traders operating through legitimate routes.
Comptroller Jaja warned that individuals or groups attempting to use the Eastern Marine corridor for illegal activities would be decisively confronted.
He commended the Comptroller General of Customs for approving the deployment of additional boats to the Command, describing the gesture as a morale booster for officers and a major boost to operational effectiveness.
He concluded by reaffirming the Command’s determination to track down and dismantle all smuggling networks within its jurisdiction, stressing that the fight against smuggling remains firm and unwavering.