The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has generated a record-breaking revenue of N676 billion for the Federal Government between January and August. This impressive achievement was achieved through teamwork, diligence, and zero compromise on the part of the officers. The command also made significant seizures of prohibited items, including illicit drugs and firearms. The new Customs Area Controller in Lagos, Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba, has been urged to continue the excellent work done by his predecessor.
The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has achieved a remarkable feat by generating a total revenue of N676 billion for the Federal Government between January and August. The command, under the leadership of Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Auwal Mohammed, transformed into a revenue-generating powerhouse with its highest monthly and daily revenue collection in August 2023.
The outstanding performance of the Apapa Command can be attributed to the remarkable teamwork, diligence, and zero compromise on the part of the officers. Their efforts have contributed significantly to revenue collection, prevention of smuggling, and trade facilitation, surpassing government expectations.
During his tenure as the Area Controller, Assistant Comptroller General Mohammed witnessed numerous operational successes. He commended the officers for their commitment and dedication, which led to the high revenue collections. In August alone, the command collected a total of N136 billion as monthly revenue. Additionally, on August 3, the command achieved a milestone by collecting N10 billion in a single day – the highest daily collection in the history of the Nigeria Customs Service.
Assistant Comptroller General Mohammed emphasized the importance of preventing smuggling and adhering to import and export prohibition lists. He highlighted the port's critical role in the economy and national security and urged officers to remain vigilant at all times.
The Apapa Command's efforts in preventing the illegal importation of drugs were commendable. Within the eight-month period, the command seized tramadol worth N21.6 billion, weighing 10.3 tonnes. This seizure was a significant blow to those involved in the illicit drug trade. In a separate operation, 20 cartons of illicit drugs valued at N1.4 billion were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
The command also demonstrated its vigilance by uncovering and seizing two pistols hidden inside a groupage container. This action underscores the officers' commitment to safeguarding national security.
Furthermore, Assistant Comptroller General Mohammed encouraged importers and their agents to familiarize themselves with federal government guidelines on items requiring an end-user certificate. Compliance with these guidelines ensures due diligence in the importation process.
Technology has played a crucial role in trade facilitation at the Apapa Command. The deployment of the Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS ll) has streamlined operations by relying on true and proper declarations, reducing delays faced by traders at the port. Assistant Comptroller General Mohammed revealed that the command now scans an average of 120 containers daily, a significant improvement compared to the previous 50 containers examined daily.
The federal government places high expectations on the Nigeria Customs Service to drive non-oil revenue and sustain national economic growth. Assistant Comptroller General Mohammed urged officers to continually strive for excellence and uphold their crucial responsibilities.
In his handover to the newly deployed Customs Area Controller in Lagos, Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba, Assistant Comptroller General Mohammed expressed confidence in his ability to build on the achievements of his predecessor. Comptroller Jaiyeoba pledged to operate an open-door policy and ensure timely resolution of trade disputes.
The Apapa Command's exceptional revenue generation, dedication to trade facilitation, successful anti-smuggling efforts, and promotion of customs community relations have set a benchmark for future achievements. The command's outstanding performance reflects its commitment to supporting the economy, national security, and the revenue objectives of the Federal Government.
Source of content: OOO News 2023-09-12 News
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