Nigeria Customs Intercepts Pistols in Groupage Cargo, Generates Over N502 Billion in Seven Months

The Apapa Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has achieved remarkable success in revenue collection and anti-smuggling activities. The command recently intercepted two pistols concealed inside a groupage cargo, highlighting the relentless efforts of customs officers in combating illegal activities at the port.

From January to July, the Apapa Command collected an impressive N502.987 billion in revenue – a remarkable achievement that showcases the command's commitment to compliance and trade facilitation. This revenue surge is a result of increased compliance by importers, exporters, and their agents, combined with efficient system profiling and manifest tracking.

The diligent efforts of the officers have led to strict enforcement of anti-smuggling regulations, resulting in 16 seizures worth a total duty paid value of N1.4 billion. These seizures included prohibited drugs, used tyres, rice, vegetable oil, and other assorted items. The discovery of two pistols concealed inside one groupage cargo further demonstrates the effectiveness of the command in intercepting illegal items.

Customs officers have been utilizing a system profiling yardstick to evaluate the integrity levels of importers and consignees. This approach has helped treat compliant traders in accordance with their previous transaction records, promoting time-saving and cost-efficient practices. To shield traders from the risk of having their consignments seized, the Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Auwal Baba Mohammed, urges port users to comply with trade regulations and guidelines.

Compliance is essential for importers and exporters as non-compliant traders face additional costs such as demurrage charges, penalties, and delayed terminal space clearance. By complying with regulations, traders can benefit from smoother trade facilitation and cost-effective operations.

Comptroller Auwal Baba Mohammed has intensified efforts to leverage available technology, specifically electronic manifest tracking, to accelerate trade facilitation. This strategy aligns with the goal of enhancing trade processes and ease of doing business.

At a recent monthly meeting, Comptroller Mohammed encouraged officers of the command to maintain and improve upon the high standard of discipline for which the command is known. Discipline, which encompasses qualities like punctuality and adherence to the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023, serves as the foundation for efficient work etiquette and helps create an effective and compliant environment.

The success achieved by the Apapa Command has raised expectations for the Nigeria Customs Service as a whole. As the service looks to the Apapa Command for inspiration and excellence, officers are urged to use their knowledge and understanding of the rules guiding the service to facilitate legitimate trade practices. While facilitating trade for compliant traders, officers must still exercise caution to prevent the release of uncustomed goods under the guise of trade facilitation.

As the second half of 2023 begins, Comptroller Mohammed has called on officers and men of the command to build upon the achievements of the first half. The glory of these successes belongs to the entire team, and by maintaining dedication and commitment, the Apapa Command can continue to exceed expectations and contribute to the growth and development of trade in Nigeria.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-07-31 News

More detailed, more comprehensive, fresher news, please visit OOO NEWS.