By TOLA ADENUBI, Lagos

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has put its officers stationed at all border points, airports and seaports on red alert, warning them to be extra vigilant over the importation of poultry products because some have been found to contain Covid-19.

In a circular seen by the Tribune Online, the Service warned her officers to tighten security at all airports and border posts.

The memo dated September 9, 2020, and signed by acting Deputy Comptroller in-charge of Enforcement, I.T Magaji and addressed to all Zonal Coordinators, Area Controllers and Border Drill Coordinators, the NSC said that the Chinese government has detected coronavirus in imported food products.

Accordingly, the Comptroller General of Customs, Col Hameed Ali, warned all Customs Commands and Zones to intensify anti-smuggling activities towards ensuring that frozen chicken imports were not smuggled into Nigeria.

The statement reads, “Intelligence reports reaching headquarters reveals that during routine screening of meat and seafood, the Chinese authorities have detected coronavirus in a sample of frozen chicken wings and shrimps from Brazil and Ecuador.

“You are reminded that importation of live or dead birds including frozen poultry through the land border, airports and seaports are absolutely prohibited.

“Consequently, the CGC has directed all Commands and Zone to intensify anti-smuggling activities towards ensuring that frozen chicken is not illegally smuggled into the country through the land border, airport or seaports.” (Nigeria Tribune)