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Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recovered 157 bags of stolen ammonium sulfate, a key raw material used in fertilizer production and explosive manufacturing, in a major breakthrough for national security.
Comptroller Peter Ntadi, Area Controller of the Command, disclosed this during a press briefing at the Command on Thursday, describing the recovery as a significant step in protecting the nation’s economy and averting potential security threats.
According to Ntadi, the ammonium sulfate was en route to a fertilizer blending company in Kirikiri when the consignment was attacked, and part of its content stolen.
“My men were able to recover 157 stolen bags. You ask yourself, why would anyone want to steal ammonium sulfate if they don’t have a fertilizer blending plant? This is a matter of national security and is under investigation,” he stated.
He explained that ammonium sulfate is not just a fertilizer component but also a possible ingredient for explosives, hence the critical nature of the interception. “We have escalated the matter to the National Security Adviser for further investigation,” he said.
Beyond the recovery, Ntadi outlined other significant seizures made by the Command in recent months, including foreign parboiled rice, cannabis sativa, and stolen polypropylene. These seizures, he noted, reflect the Command’s commitment to combating smuggling and protecting public health.
The Comptroller also used the occasion to unveil major infrastructural and operational upgrades aimed at transforming Western Marine into a model command, highlighting the key projects to include; an enlarged jetty capable of accommodating six patrol boats simultaneously, new quarter guard facilities, and enhanced security infrastructure around the Command premises.
“When I resumed office, this facility was almost overrun by hoodlums. We had to secure the premises, build new security structures, and install a symbolic anchor to reflect our maritime identity,” Ntadi said.
He revealed that the jetty, which was previously in a dilapidated state, has been reconstructed to international standards to ensure safer and more efficient boat operations.
“Before now, entering or exiting boats was risky. Today, we can berth six boats at once and deploy swiftly in response to maritime threats,” he added.
Ntadi also announced the refurbishment of patrol boats, installation of proper seating, and procurement of new engines to ensure officers conduct operations in comfort and safety.
“Welfare is key. If you want optimum performance, you must take care of your officers,” he emphasized, citing a recent case where officers collectively contributed funds to provide an amputated colleague with an artificial limb.
Ntadi also disclosed that the Command has commenced the rebuilding of its flood-prone outstations, raising their foundations five feet above water level to ensure safety and operational continuity during heavy rains.
He thanked Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, for his leadership and support, stressing that Western Marine Command is now better positioned to deliver on its mandate of safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters.
The event also featured the decoration of the Command’s newly promoted officers including the spokesman, Mr. Sunday Okopi.
