Customs Command Rakes In Billions, Strikes Big Against Smuggling In Oyo/Osun

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Oyo/Osun Area Command has marked a series of notable achievements in revenue collection and anti-smuggling efforts, as revealed by the Customs Area Comptroller, Dr. Ben Oramalugo, during a media briefing at the Command’s headquarters in Ibadan.

Dr. Oramalugo began by acknowledging the current economic challenges facing Nigeria, emphasizing the Command’s commitment to its dual mandate of generating revenue and curbing illegal trade. Despite the economic strain, the Command recorded significant gains in revenue, generating ₦23.97 billion in Q3 2024, a 27.5% increase from the same period last year.

The cumulative revenue from January to September reached ₦56.66 billion, reflecting a 7.85% rise compared to 2023. This impressive collection, he noted, was achieved through enhanced compliance, enforcement, and improved technological procedures like the NICIS II system.

The Customs Chief attributed the revenue success to efficient compliance measures, robust documentation, and excise duty collections from legitimate production activities within the Command’s jurisdiction. He commended officers for their steadfast dedication and emphasized the Command’s focus on ensuring a steady revenue stream for Nigeria amid the current economic pressures.

On anti-smuggling operations, Dr. Oramalugo highlighted the Command’s intensified efforts, stating that from August 30 to October 29, 2024, the Oyo/Osun Area Command made 31 significant interceptions, seizing contraband worth over ₦755.9 million in Duty Paid Value (DPV). Confiscated items included 433 bags of foreign rice, 744.9 kg of cannabis sativa, and a substantial haul of fake pharmaceuticals, which were scheduled to be handed over to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

“Our commitment to securing the nation’s economy extends to protecting local industries and ensuring a fair trading environment,” Dr. Oramalugo emphasized. He credited the Command’s successes to collaborative efforts with local communities and sister security agencies, leveraging intelligence-led strategies and community outreach to reduce smuggling.

Dr. Oramalugo further reiterated the Command’s dedication to the policy thrust of Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) BA Adeniyi, focusing on consolidation, collaboration, and innovation. With ongoing community engagement and reliance on advanced technology, he assured that the Command is poised to build on these achievements.

As he concluded, Dr. Oramalugo expressed gratitude to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders, urging public support and cooperation to continue the fight against smuggling and economic sabotage. “With your collaboration,” he stated, “we can maintain secure borders, boost revenue, and contribute to Nigeria’s economic stability.”

For more updates on Nigeria Customs Service achievements, visit fasnewsng.com.

By Fikunmi Sokoya