Apapa Command of Nigeria Customs Generates N676 Billion Revenue for Federal Government

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, showcasing the command's exceptional performance and dedication towards revenue generation.

Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Auwal Mohammed, acknowledged the commendable efforts of the officers at the command and urged them to continue surpassing the government's expectations in revenue collection, prevention of smuggling, and trade facilitation.

Under Mohammed's tenure as the area controller, the Apapa command achieved several remarkable milestones, largely due to teamwork, diligence, and zero compromise in their duties. One of the significant achievements was the command's highest monthly and daily revenue collection in August 2023.

In August alone, the Apapa command collected a monthly revenue of N136 billion, with a daily collection of N10 billion on the 3rd, marking the highest figures ever recorded by the Nigeria Customs Service.

The command's outstanding performance in revenue generation can be attributed to its commitment in tackling smuggling and ensuring trade facilitation. Mohammed emphasized that preventing the smuggling and importation of prohibited items is crucial for national security and economic sustainability.

During the eight-month period, the Apapa command made noteworthy seizures, including the confiscation of N21.6 billion worth of tramadol, packed in 720 cartons with a total of 143.8 million units and 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).

Mohammed expressed his appreciation for the vigilance of the officers who discovered two hidden pistols inside a groupage container. He later reminded importers and their agents to stay updated with federal government guidelines concerning end-user certificates to ensure compliance and due diligence before importing goods.

Furthermore, technology has played a significant role in enhancing trade facilitation within the command. The Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II) relies on accurate declarations, and any false declaration results in unnecessary delays for traders at the port. However, Mohammed stated that the deployment of scanners has improved operations significantly, with 120 containers now being scanned daily compared to the previous 50.

The role of the Nigeria Customs Service in the government's non-oil revenue drive and national economic sustenance cannot be overstated. Mohammed reminded the officers that high expectations are placed on them to fulfill this strategic role.

Lastly, exporters were encouraged to take advantage of the Domestic Export Warehouse (DEW) and other government initiatives that streamline cargo access and loading onto vessels, avoiding multiple checks and container reopenings.

The newly deployed Customs Area Controller in Lagos, Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba, expressed gratitude for the opportunity and promised to uphold an open-door policy and resolve trade disputes efficiently. Jaiyeoba pledged to build upon his predecessor's achievements in revenue generation, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling efforts, and the promotion of customs community relations.

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

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