The Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted about 603 firearms and other weapons imported into the country between January and August 2026, raising concerns over the possible movement of illegal arms ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The seizures include 399 Jojef pump-action rifles intercepted at the Tin Can Island Port, as well as 204 pump-action rifles seized and handed over to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons.
Customs Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi said criminal networks could attempt to exploit Nigeria’s ports, borders and airports to move prohibited items into the country ahead of the elections. He assured that the Service would intensify surveillance and enforcement operations.
The Director-General of NCCSALW, Kokomo Johnson, said illicit small arms and light weapons remain major drivers of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, insurgency and other violent crimes.
The 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, while the governorship and State Assembly elections will hold on February 6.
