By SUNTV Global Channel
August 18, 2026
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 399 Jojeff pump-action rifles and 535 assorted firearm components at the Tincan Island Port in Lagos, raising concerns over the illegal movement of firearms into Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The seized weapons and firearm components were formally handed over to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, on Monday.
Adeniyi described the seizure as a major intervention, particularly amid Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges. He said the interception had prevented hundreds of firearms from potentially reaching criminal groups.
According to the Customs boss, the operation also highlighted the growing importance of technology and intelligence-driven risk management in detecting suspicious consignments at the nation’s ports.
“We will not allow the ports and the borders of this country to be used to bring in arms or anything else that threatens the safety of Nigerians,” Adeniyi said.
He said the Customs Service would continue strengthening intelligence gathering and risk-management systems while collaborating with other security agencies to identify and prosecute those involved in illicit arms trafficking.
Adeniyi disclosed that two suspects arrested in connection with the seizure had been remanded by the Federal High Court in Lagos, with their arraignment scheduled for August 25, 2026.
Customs Officers Also Warned
The Customs chief issued a strong warning to personnel who might attempt to facilitate the illegal importation of firearms.
He said officers who use their positions to assist arms traffickers would not receive protection from the Nigeria Customs Service.
“What stands on record today is that these rifles will never be fired in this country,” Adeniyi said.
He added that any Customs officer involved in facilitating the illegal movement of firearms would face the consequences of their actions.
NCCSALW Takes Custody
Receiving the seized weapons on behalf of the NCCSALW, its Director-General, Deputy Inspector-General of Police Johnson Babatunde (Rtd.), commended the Customs Service for its professionalism and continued cooperation in combating illicit arms and ammunition.
Babatunde said the seized items would be handled in accordance with Nigerian laws and international best practices governing small arms and light weapons.
He explained that the NCCSALW would immediately catalogue, profile and document the weapons and components.
According to him, any serviceable weapons considered necessary for authorised use by security agencies would be properly accounted for, while illegal, obsolete or unserviceable firearms would be destroyed in accordance with established procedures.
The seizure comes as security agencies face growing concerns over the circulation of illegal firearms and the potential use of such weapons to fuel violence as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments surrounding the seizure and Nigeria’s efforts to prevent the circulation of illicit firearms.
