Apapa Customs Command Generates N676bn Revenue for FG in Eight Months

The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has generated an impressive revenue of N676 billion for the Federal Government between January and August, consolidating its position as one of the top revenue-generating commands in the country.

On his recent handover to the newly deployed Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba, the former Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Auwal Mohammed, applauded the officers of the command for their dedication to service. He urged them to surpass government expectations in revenue collection, prevention of smuggling, and trade facilitation.

Under his watch as the former Area Controller, the Apapa Customs Command achieved significant feats through teamwork, diligence, and zero compromise. These efforts led to several operational successes and revenue milestones for the command.

The month of August 2023 marked a remarkable achievement for the Apapa command, as it recorded its highest monthly and daily revenue collections in history. In August, a total of N136 billion was collected as monthly revenue, with N10 billion collected on August 3, setting a new record for daily collections.

Auwal Mohammed emphasized the crucial role of the Apapa port in Nigeria's economy and national security. He urged the officers to remain vigilant in preventing smuggling and importation of prohibited items, and to adhere strictly to import and export prohibition lists.

The command's efforts in combating illicit drugs were also commended. During the eight-month period, a seizure of tramadol worth N21.6 billion was made, consisting of 720 cartons containing approximately 143.8 million units of 225-milligram tablets, weighing 10.3 tonnes. Additionally, 20 cartons of illicit drugs valued at N1.4 billion were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The customs officers' vigilance also led to the seizure of two pistols concealed within a groupage container. This exemplified their commitment to ensuring national security.

Importers and their agents were advised to stay abreast of federal government guidelines on items requiring end-user certificates. Compliance and due diligence should be observed before embarking on importation.

Technological advancements in trade facilitation were highlighted by Auwal Mohammed. The Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II) depends on accurate and truthful declarations from traders. False declarations contribute to unnecessary delays at the port, impacting trade efficiency.

The deployment of scanners at the Apapa port has significantly improved operations. Currently, an average of 120 containers are scanned daily, compared to 50 containers previously examined at the earlier stage. This has further enhanced trade facilitation and security measures at the port.

Considering the strategic role of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in the government's non-oil revenue drive and national economic sustenance, Mohammed urged officers to maintain high standards and meet the government's expectations.

In terms of export promotion, exporters were encouraged to take advantage of initiatives like the Domestic Export Warehouse (DEW). These initiatives allow cargoes to access the port seamlessly and be loaded onto vessels without multiple checks or container reopening, thereby enhancing trade processes.

The new Customs Area Controller of Apapa, Babajide Jaiyeoba, expressed his gratitude to the Acting Controller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for the opportunity. He promised to operate an open-door policy and ensure prompt resolution of trade disputes. Jaiyeoba aims to build on the achievements of his predecessor, particularly in revenue generation, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling efforts, and promotion of customs community relations.

With the strong foundation set by the former controller and the commitment of officers at the Apapa Customs Command, the command is well-positioned to continue its outstanding performance in revenue generation and effectively contribute to the nation's economic growth.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-09-12 News

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