Comptr. Oramalugo Tutors On Core Mandates of NCS at RUIMUN
Bisi Akingbade
The Customs Area Controller, CAC, Seme Area Command, Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, PhD, has addressed participants at the 5th Session of Redeemer’s University International Model United Nations Conference, RUIMUN, as a distinguished speaker slated for 3rd to 6th March 2025.
The conference with the theme "Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations," provided a platform for insightful discussions on global development and nation-building.
In his address, Comptroller Oramalugo highlighted the critical role of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, in national development, emphasizing trade facilitation, revenue generation, Anti-smuggling activities and National security. He spoke passionately about the importance of integrity, patriotism, and the detrimental effects of smuggling on the economy and society.
He also highlighted key Insights from Economic Impact of Smuggling, stressing the need to support local industries, citing Nigeria’s status as a leading rice producer yet facing challenges in local patronage. “When we fail to buy local rice, we kill our factories,” he remarked. He also warned about the dangers of smuggled fake drugs, second hand clothing, used tyres and other un-customs goods which pose severe health and safety risks.
Comptroller Oramalugo outlined three core mandates of Nigeria Customs Service in Nation-Building, which includes:- Trade Facilitation- Simplifying customs processes to enhance legitimate trade and economic growth, Revenue Generation: Contributing significantly to national revenue, with NCS generating over ₦6 trillion last year and Anti-smuggling and National Security: Preventing the entry of prohibited and harmful goods while collaborating with other agencies to safeguard the nation.
On Global Standards & Best Practice, he referenced the Arusha Declaration and other international conventions, emphasizing their role in enhancing customs integrity, harmonizing procedures, and combating illicit activities.
During an interview at the event, Comptroller Oramalugo praised the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, describing him as "the best CGC in Africa." He commended the CGC’s numerous achievements and recognition, including "Outstanding Revenue Collection" Award by the Nigeria President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the recent Sun Newspaper’s "Best Public Servant of the Year" award.
Comptroller Oramalugo expressed his gratitude to Redeemer’s University for the opportunity to engage with young leaders and enlighten them on the vital contributions of the Nigeria Customs Service to national progress.
