Customs dismiss smuggling, revenue leakage allegations

The Nigeria Customs Service has strongly refuted allegations of heightened smuggling, revenue loss, and internal impropriety, labeling them as a misrepresentation of its enforcement and administrative functions. Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer, issued a statement on Thursday addressing an investigative report published by an online medium on August 7, 2026.

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Our responsibility is to reduce smuggling to the barest minimum, not to claim that it can be completely eradicated.

The report had alleged intensified smuggling along specific border corridors and manipulation of the 846 valuation code at major commands. Maiwada countered that the service's regular seizures contradict the claim of a smuggling surge, emphasizing that their goal is to minimize, not completely eradicate, smuggling. He explained that the 846 code is a legitimate digital tool for valuing vehicles with non-standard identification numbers, including specialized equipment and customized models. Standard vehicles are assessed automatically, while 846 code applications undergo secondary approval by senior officers.

Regarding recruitment, the Customs Service asserted that the exercise for Assistant Superintendents of Customs II was authorized and conducted in line with the NCS Act and Federal Character Commission guidelines. Successful candidates received provisional offers pending verification. The service also dismissed claims of succession manipulation and favoritism, stating that promotions are based on seniority, merit, examinations, and vacancies, adhering to established regulations.

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The 846 code is an established digital valuation code within the Customs portal, specifically designated for vehicles with non-standard or non-compliant Vehicle Identification Numbers.

Maiwada added that post-clearance audits identify discrepancies, leading to demand notices for short-collected duties and sanctions. He highlighted that revenue collections at major ports have reached historic levels under the current digital framework, underscoring the service's operational effectiveness.

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Succession and promotion within the Service are governed by established rules and career progression structures, not personal preference.