Comptroller Aliyu Assumes Duty at FOU Zone A, Vows Stronger Intelligence-Led Anti-Smuggling Operations
Nifemi Coker
Comptroller Gambo Aliyu has taken over as the new Controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), pledging to deepen intelligence-driven operations in the fight against smuggling and other illicit trade activities that undermine national security and economic stability.
Speaking at the handover ceremony on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at the unit’s headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos, Aliyu thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and the management team for the confidence reposed in him.
He also commended his predecessor, ACG Muhammed Shuaibu for his contributions and achievements during his tenure.
“I assure you that we will consolidate on these achievements for even greater successes,” he said. “FOU Zone A plays a critical role in enforcing compliance, suppressing smuggling and safeguarding the economic integrity of our dear nation. I am aware of the enormous responsibilities that come with this position, especially within a zone as strategic, dynamic and challenging as Lagos.”
Aliyu expressed confidence that with the cooperation and professionalism of officers and men of the unit, the command would continue to deliver on its mandate.
He listed professionalism, discipline, stakeholder engagement, capacity building and improved welfare as key priorities under his administration.
“High standards of ethics, integrity and accountability will remain non-negotiable. Every officer must ensure that their actions reflect the core values of the Service,” he said.
“We will deepen collaboration with sister agencies, community leaders and the trading public to strengthen security and facilitate lawful trade. The motivation and welfare of officers will also be prioritized to ensure improved efficiency and operational readiness.”
He assured stakeholders that justice, equity and fairness would guide all operations, adding that his administration would be anchored on three core objectives: management change, compliance management and reputation management. Aliyu also pledged an open-door policy and called for collective support.
On his part, the outgoing Controller, ACG Muhammed Shuaibu, highlighted key achievements recorded during his seven-month tenure, which began on April 23, 2025. He said the unit carried out 476 interceptions resulting in 761 seizures with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over N10.151 billion.
Notable seizures included 23,000 bags of foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to 38 trailer loads), 98 used vehicles, 2,350kg of Cannabis Sativa, 1,820 jerry cans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 15 assorted rifles, 4,841 rounds of ammunition, two industrial drones, 25kg of crystal methamphetamine, and four 50kg cylinders of Russian-made explosives.
The unit also seized $30,000 and 110 CFA francs valued at N31 million, which has been secured as final forfeiture to the Federal Government.
Shuaibu added that 38 suspects were arrested during the period, while eight containers of expired pharmaceutical products valued at N7.5 billion were handed over to NAFDAC.
In addition, the unit recovered N419.2 million through demand notices issued on questionable declarations and undervalued consignments.
He attributed the successes to the cooperation of stakeholders and the dedication of officers, urging them to extend the same support to his successor.
“I am confident that the foundation we have built will continue to flourish,” he said. “Our shared objective remains to sustain prudent stewardship and strengthen the fight against smuggling. To my successor, I extend heartfelt congratulations and wish you great success.”
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