OYO/OSUN Area Command Generates N20.048 Billion As Revenue, Seized Goods With DPV of N165.3 Million
By: Bisi Akingbade
The Oyo/Osun Area Command of Nigeria Customs Service, has announced the collection of ₦2,048,487,969.00 (Two billion and forty-eight million, four hundred and eight seven thousand nine hundred and sixty-nine naira only) as revenue covering the period of 1 February to 27 February 2025.
Speaking during the press briefing today at the command headquarters in Ibadan, Oyo , the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Joseph Olugbuyi Adelaja said that the command has been able to reduced tax evasion through deployment of improved data analytics to monitor trade flows.
His words "Under my leadership, the Command was able to collect the sum of ₦2,048,487,969.00 (Two billion and forty-eight million, four hundred and eight seven thousand nine hundred and sixty-nine naira only) as revenue covering the period of 1 February to 27 February 2025. This revenue collected reflects the diligence and efficiency of our Officers and men in ensuring compliance with extant Customs laws and policies.
"The Oyo/Osun Area Command has significantly reduced tax evasion through the adoption of advanced technology, such as the deployment of improved data analytics, which has enabled the Command to monitor trade flows and identify discrepancies effectively.
Comptroller Adelaja said "One of the core mandates of the Nigeria Customs Service is the suppression of smuggling, which undermines national security and economic growth. The Oyo/Osun Area Command has made significant strides in curbing smuggling activities, safeguarding the nation's economy, and protecting local industries from the harmful effects of illicit trade.
"Within 2 weeks of my assumption of duty, the Command has intercepted and seized several high-profile smuggling consignments, including the seizure of foreign Rice, Second-hand clothing, Premium Motor Spirit and used tyres. These seizures have a duty paid valued of ₦165,387,000.00k (One and sixty-five million, Three hundred and eighty-seven thousand naira only). The interception and seizure of these prohibited and uncustomed items have prevented the illegal inflow of products that undermine local industries, particularly rice farmers and manufacturers in the region. On this note, the interception of prohibited foreign parboiled rice has led to the increase in production and consumption of the local rice in Oyo and Osun State respectively.
The seized items includes- FOREIGN PARBOILED RICE -1043 bags (50 kg) ₦114,730,000.00k, USED TYRES -452 Pieces ₦43,392,000.00k, USED CLOTHES - 2 bales ₦1,440,000.00k, and
PREMIUM MOTOR SPIRIT (PMS)-233 Kegs (25 Litres)- ₦5,825,000.00k
with total duty paid value of ₦165,387,000.00k
"The Command in a bid to enhance border monitoring has intensified its surveillance of key entry points and transit routes within the Oyo/Osun region. Through a combination of physical inspections, surveillance technology, and intelligence sharing with other security agencies.
He further said that the command’s Anti-smuggling operations have been strengthened through increased collaboration with other security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police Force, Department of State Services, DSS, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and the Nigerian Immigration Service, NIS,. These partnerships have facilitated the exchange of intelligence and allowed the joint operations to dismantle smuggling networks operating in the region.
"The Command will further prioritize the sensitization of the members of the public to raise awareness about the negative impact of smuggling on the economy and the well-being of the nation. Through media engagements and outreach programs, the Command would empower the local communities with the basic knowledge and tools required to report smuggling activities. This initiative would equip the members of the public about the activities of the Nigeria Customs Service in order to support the fight against illegal trade.
"The economic downturn facing Nigeria has created a number of challenges for the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly in the areas of revenue collection and the prevention of smuggling. The low level of importation, fluctuating exchange rates, and inflation have all contributed to the economic challenges being faced. However, the Command has responded strategically to these challenges, ensuring that the Command remains resolute on its mission.
"Despite the current economic constraints, the Oyo/Osun Area Command has demonstrated resilience and resourcefulness in adapting to the changing environment. Through efficient management of resources, improved coordination of officers, and strategic partnerships, the Command has mitigated the impact of the economic downturn.
"Furthermore, by recognizing the importance of a collaborative approach, the Command has also further prioritized the engagement with excise factories and other stakeholders to ensure the continuity of operations and a steady flow of revenue. This approach also focused on building a strong relationship with the stakeholders and to ensure that the Command maintain trust and cooperation even in this challenging time.
He noted that the Oyo/Osun Area Command in the past 22 days has been nothing short of transformative, despite the economic downturn, the Command has recorded significant revenue milestones and has made commendable progress in its anti-smuggling efforts.
