“We are here today to examine these companies' operational structures, corporate governance, and financial realities. By sharing experiences and identifying challenges, we can develop solutions that will drive growth and efficiency,” CGC ADENIYI

“We are here today to examine these companies' operational structures, corporate governance, and financial realities. By sharing experiences and identifying challenges, we can develop solutions that will drive growth and efficiency,”  CGC ADENIYI 

Bisi Akingbade 

Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, on 6 February 2025, hosted a high-level roundtable discussion to share experiences on operational best practices for government-owned companies at its Headquarters in Maitama Abuja. 

The event which brought together key stakeholders from the military, paramilitary, and financial sectors.

The one-day event was attended by the Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC, Adewale Adeniyi, alongside his management team, representatives from the Ministry of Finance, senior officers from the Nigerian Air Force, and board members of various government-owned companies. Also present were distinguished guest speakers, including Rear Admiral Suleiman Abdullahi, Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Umar (Rtd.), Professor Peter Akper, SAN, Wing Commander Mohammed Mamu, and Managing Partner of Anaebonam Ken & Co, Christopher Ekwozor.

In his keynote address, CGC Adeniyi underscored the significance of corporate governance, financial autonomy, and operational efficiency in managing government-owned enterprises, particularly those under military and paramilitary organisations. He emphasised that the Nigeria Customs Service operates four companies, each contributing to economic growth, job creation, and service delivery.

“We are here today to examine these companies' operational structures, corporate governance, and financial realities. By sharing experiences and identifying challenges, we can develop solutions that will drive growth and efficiency,” he stated.

Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Umar (Rtd.) also provided insights into the establishment and management of military-owned companies, tracing their evolution and impact. He highlighted the pioneering role of Engineering and Technical Services Limited, followed by other entities such as Properties, Housing and Construction Services, and the Nigerian Air Force Investment Company Limited.

Another expert, Rear Admiral Suleiman Abdullahi, former Director of Logistics and Defence Administration, discussed the unique challenges faced by government-owned companies, particularly the delicate balance between government oversight and business autonomy.

“Understanding the legal and structural frameworks of such companies is essential for their sustainability,” he noted.

The roundtable discussion came at a crucial time when government-owned enterprises strive to enhance efficiency and profitability while aligning with broader governance structures. The discussions fostered collaboration between security agencies and business entities, paving the way for improved operational standards.

The NCS Director of Legal Services, Smart Akande, Esq., delivered the vote of thanks, commending CGC Adeniyi and his management team for spearheading the initiative. He also appreciated the esteemed speakers and attendees' invaluable insights and contributions.

“Your perspectives have enriched our understanding of operational best practices for government-owned companies,” he stated.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening governance, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring government-owned enterprises remain viable contributors to national economic growth.

Comptroller Chidi Nwokore now CAC of Kebbi Area Command, promises to build on Ojike's Legacy

Comptroller Chidi Nwokore  now CAC of  Kebbi Area Command, promises to build on Ojike's Legacy 

L-R Comptroller. Chidi Nwokore, new CAC Kebbi Area Command, Comptroller Iheanacho Ojike

Bisi Akingbade 

                                                                                                                                            

Kebbi Area Command has witnessed  a shift in power on Thursday, the 6th of February, 2025 as the Comptroller Chidi Chukwumeziri Nwokorie takes over the mantle of leadership at the Kebbi Area Command while Comptroller Iheanacho Ernest Ojike proceeded for retirement. 

The New Customs Area Controller  Chidi Chukwumeziri  Nwokorie in his address of welcome at the command conference room charged his officers to be professional, disciplined and be mindful of their core mandates as they discharge their duties in their various Area Of Responsibility (AOR).

He further seeks the cooperation of the officers and men of the Command and thanked the outgoing boss for his land mark achievements while in active service he pledged not to derail from his policies but build on them for continuity.

Furthermore, the Outgoing Customs Area Controller Iheanacho Ernest Ojike acknowledged the unwavering support he enjoyed from the Command officers, sister agencies, Kebbi State Government and stakeholders during his stay and pleaded for same in honour of his successor.

The grand handing over ceremony which was held at the Command’s conference room brought top Customs officers with goodwill messages from the attendees who expressed positive opinions and emotions on the life of the retiring Comptroller.

Oyo/Osun Area Command: Comptroller Oramalugo Showcase Scorecard, Made Exceptional Revenue of N82.1 bn In Year 2024, N7.8bn in January 2025

Oyo/Osun Area Command: Comptroller Oramalugo  Showcase Scorecard, Made Exceptional  Revenue of N82.1 bn In Year 2024, N7.8bn in January 2025

    CAC OYO/OSUN COMMAND, COMPTR. BEN ORAMALUGO 

Bisi Akingbade 

The Customs Area Controller, Oyo/Osun Area Command, Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, PhD, has announced  the milestones achieved by Oyo/ Osun Area Command for the period  of January to December 2024 and milestones reached in January 2025, at the  Operational headquarters of the command in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Comptroller Oramalugo made this known while briefing the Journalists. 

"With profound gratitude and a sense of fulfillment, I stand before you today to address you on the command's first press brief in the year 2025, as well as my final press brief as the Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service Oyo/Osun Area Command. As I have been redeployed to another Command, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the incredible progress we have accomplished together in the previous one year and four months, and with a deep sense of satisfaction and accomplishment, I am tremendously grateful for all of your support.

"When I took over the mantle of leadership as the Oyo/Osun Command's Customs Area Controller, we made a collaborative commitment to performing our tasks with excellence while honouring the Nigeria Customs Service's basic values. We worked together to address three primary priorities: increasing revenue collection, safeguarding Nigeria's borders through effective anti-smuggling operations, and guaranteeing compliance with federal fiscal regulations. These duties helped our beloved country's economic growth while also preventing the introduction of illegal items into the country, which would have had a negative impact on the general public. 

"Today, I am pleased to report that we have made tremendous progress in each of these areas, and as such, today's press briefing will reflect on the Command's scorecard for the period January to December 2024, as well as the milestones already reached in the year 2025. 

 On Revenue Collection Milestone,  Comptroller Oramalugo said the command made an exceptional and respectable revenue "Before I showcase our achievements for January 2025, I would like to emphasize unequivocally that the Command's revenue collection in 2024 was exceptional and respectable. In 2024, the command successfully generated ₦82,193,426,334.10k (Eighty-Two billion, One hundred and ninety-three million, Four hundred and twenty-six thousand, Three hundred and Thirty-Four-naira, Ten kobo) for the Federal Government. The amount collected is 15.3% higher than the amount collected in fiscal year 2023 ₦71,292,530,398.17k (Seventy-One billion, Two hundred and ninety-two million, Five hundred and thirty thousand, Three hundred- and Ninety-Eight-naira, seventeen kobo). Furthermore, despite the severe economic obstacles encountered, the total revenue received in 2024 is the largest since the inception of the Command. This achievement in all modesty represents the hard work and dedication of the officers and men under my leadership, as well as our strong collaboration with stakeholders in the business community, in-depth strategic enforcement and improved compliance.

He said that "In the face of the prevailing economic situation and implementation of various fiscal policies to stabilize the country’s economy, I would like to announce that for the month of January 2025 the Oyo/Osun Area Command, has collected the sum of ₦7,804,408,776:88k (Seven billion, Eight hundred and four million, Four hundred and eight thousand, Seven hundred and Seventy-Six Naira, Eighty-Eight Kobo). The sum collected signifies a 10.1% and 14.3% when compared to the sums of ₦7,088,191,138:30k (Seven billion, Eighty-eight million, One hundred and ninety-one thousand, One hundred and thirty-eight naira, thirty kobo) ₦6,824,954,338:96k (Six billion, Eight hundred and Twenty-four million, Nine hundred and fifty-four thousand, Three hundred- and thirty-eight-naira, ninety-six kobo) collected in the year 2023 and 2024 respectively.

 "I would like to point out that the revenue milestone was achieved with the successful implementation of many strategic initiatives aimed at increasing compliance and streamlining our procedures. The Command was able to reduce delays, boost efficiency, and facilitate trade while collecting proper duties by utilizing technology such as the Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System, (NICIS II, and taking a proactive approach in addressing legitimate traders' problems.

 On Anti-Smuggling and National Security ,the CAC noted that the command and Nigeria Customs Service  has  endeavor to combat smuggling within the country through sustained efforts and has  achieved tremendous progress in countering unlawful activities that endanger our country's security and impede the growth of our local industry. 

"Due to the interceptions and seizures of uncustomed commodities valued at ₦5,377,759,260:00k (Five billion, three hundred and seventy-seven million, seven hundred and fifty-nine thousand, two hundred and sixty naira only) in duty-paid value, the command score card for anti-smuggling efforts in 2024 is likewise of massive proportions. In comparison to the duty paid value of ₦451,479,759:00k (Four hundred and fifty-one million, four hundred and seventy-nine thousand, seven hundred and fifty-nine naira only) intercepted and confiscated in 2023, the duty paid value for 2024 represents a 1,091.14% increase.

"Between December 20th, 2024 to January 31st, 2025, the Command intercepted and seized smuggled goods with a duty paid value ₦202,784,000.00k. (Two hundred and two million, Seven hundred and eighty-four thousand naira only). These items included the following contraband goods which are detrimental to Nigeria’s economy and national security. 

FOREIGN PARBOILED RICE 170 Bags (50 kg) ₦14,960,000.00k, USED TYRES 1667 Pieces ₦160,032,000.00k, USED CLOTHES 32 Bales 4 Sacks ₦23,040,000.00k, ₦2,880,000.00k, USED SHOES 2 Sacks, ₦1,080,000.00k PREMIUM MOTOR SPIRIT (PMS), 40 Kegs (25 Liters) ₦792,000.00k with total of  ₦202,784,000.00k

 "As we carried out these anti-smuggling operations, we also remained focused on protecting the interests of local manufacturers and industries. Our efforts ensured that cheaper, substandard, and harmful goods were kept out of our markets, thereby giving local producers an opportunity to thrive and ensuring the health and safety of our citizens.

Additionally, we took significant steps to engage with local communities, raising awareness about the dangers of smuggling and its negative impact on national development. Through these outreach programs, we were able to foster stronger collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and the general public, which is crucial for achieving long-term success in the suppression of smuggling within the Command’s Area of Responsibility.

Conclusion:

"As I prepare to take up my new responsibilities, my sincere appreciation goes to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State Engr. Seyi Makinde fsne for his unwavering support to the Command.

Comptroller Oramalugo also appreciated  the Comptroller-General of Customs BA Adeniyi MFR dsm fnipr  psc (+) and the entire management team for their unwavering support, And  officers and men of the Oyo/Osun Command for their dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the goals of the Nigeria Customs Service. 

NPA Reviews Tariffs Upward By 15%, After 32 Years to Upgrade Weak Infrastructure

NPA Reviews Tariffs Upward By 15%, After 32 Years to Upgrade Weak Infrastructure 

    MD, NPA, DR. ABUBAKAR DANTSOHO

Bisi Akingbade 

The Managing Director, Nigeria Ports Authority, NPA,  Dr  Abubakar Dantsoho, has said it is reviewing its charges upward by 15 per cent, citing a need for competitiveness and infrastructural upgrades.

Dantsoho made this known during a maritime stakeholders’ meeting held in Lagos on Thursday.

The Managing Director, NPA, said the authority was compelled by the exigency of bringing Nigerian ports up to speed with those of its peers globally in terms of infrastructure and equipments.

His words: “Though the NPA rates review has already been approved by the Federal Government, but the management decided to meet with stakeholders on the issue out of the desire to carry everyone along.

“The 15 per cent upward review which is to cut across all NPA rates and dues is premised on the urgent need to address the undesirable reality of aged and weak infrastructure.

“We need to address obsolete equipment and slow port capacity expansion which has continued to diminish performance and, indeed, competitiveness of Nigerian ports.

“Port authorities depend on revenue from operations to stay alive to their responsibilities which include construction and maintenance of port infrastructure.

“Other responsibilities are dredging of channels, provision of aids for safe navigation, provision of modern marine crafts for efficient harbour services,

 automation and digitisation of port transactions, port security, energy efficiency and training and retraining of its employees,” Dantsoho said.

Dantsoho, who was represented by Mr  Olalekan Badmus, Executive Director, Marine and Operation, said that this was the first time the Nigeria Ports Authority would be reviewing its rates since 1993.

Also speaking, a Maritime Stakeholder, Mr Joshua Asanga, concerned about the increment, said that the value of NPA’s present tariff had been suppressed by inflation, which was at about 35 per cent.

Asanga listed port management liabilities like wages, fuel and other areas of expenditure as having adjusted upwards without a commensurate rise in NPA charges for over 30 years.

He noted that NPA needed funds for improved port infrastructure, robust Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for Port Community System, procurement of tug boats and other operational platforms to achieve efficiency.

Another stakeholder, Mr Demian Ukagu, spoke on the need to apply more NPA funding to outer port facilities and jetties like the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal and development of other critical port facilities across the country.

He noted that NPA rates should be able to cover these costs that would guarantee minimum return on investment and promote sustainable trade.

The meeting agreed that existing tariffs were set devoid of capital cost, labour cost, consumables and overhead expenditures needed to run the ports.

The meeting was attended by terminal operators, bonded terminal operators and other ports users.

ICAN Commends NDIC on Integrity, Transparency, Professionalism in Promoting Financial System Stability

ICAN Commends NDIC on Integrity, Transparency, Professionalism in Promoting Financial System Stability

Bisi Akingbade 

The President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN, Chief Davidson Chizuoke S. Alaribe, has commended the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, NDIC for its continuous compliance to the highest standards of integrity and transparency which is critical to the success of its operations in safeguarding depositors’ funds and ensuring the stability of the financial system.

This formed part of the ICAN President’s remarks during a courtesy visit of the ICAN Governing Council to the NDIC Management in Abuja. 

Chief Alaribe said, the NDIC has been recognised as a formidable organisation due to its commitment to compliance with standards of corporate governance, zero-tolerance for corruption and effective internal controls. He added that the Corporation’s commitment has been recognized by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), which awarded NDIC the top position in its 2023 Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard,  Ethics

While underscoring the relationship between his Institute and NDIC, Chief Alaribe disclosed that ICAN has also established the ICAN Accountability Index to promote integrity in key sectors of the economy, focusing on budget, credibility, asset and debt management. 

According to the press statement issued by the Ag. Head, Communication & Public Affairs, Hawwau Gambo stated that the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NDIC, Mr. Bello Hassan congratulated Chief Alaribe on his appointment as the 60th President of ICAN. Hassan, himself a Fellow of the Institute, described ICAN as a strategic stakeholder of the Corporation. He therefore reiterated the need for the Institute to ensure its members uphold the highest values of integrity and professionalism in the discharge of their duties as auditors, as NDIC and the Central Bank of Nigeria,  CBN, continue to rely on their work as external auditors in their risk-based supervision of banks. 

Reflecting on his earlier call for stronger collaboration with ICAN, the NDIC Boss stressed the need for the introduction of Deposit Insurance module in the curriculum of ICAN examinations. He emphasised that this initiative is essential to enhance understanding of the Deposit Insurance Scheme among ICAN members, who represent a significant portion of potential bankers and bank examiners. 

Hassan restated the Management’s commitment towards strengthening the partnership between ICAN and the Corporation in contributing to the stability of the banking sector and the nation’s financial system as a whole.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

Nigeria Customs Hits Economic Saboteurs, Seizes 199,495 Litres of Smuggled Fuel

Nigeria Customs Hits Economic Saboteurs, Seizes 199,495 Litres of Smuggled Fuel

Bisi Akingbade 

In view of the consequences caused by the economic saboteurs against the citizens, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), under the leadership of CGC Adewale Adeniyi, has intensified its crackdown on fuel smuggling, seizing nearly 200,000 litres of petroleum products in Adamawa State under Operation Whirlwind.

Announcing the latest development in Yola, Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi condemned smugglers' continued sabotage of Nigeria’s energy sector by describing their actions as a direct assault on the economy.

“Despite the well-articulated economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to stabilise the energy sector, some unpatriotic elements remain determined to undermine these efforts through complex smuggling operations.” CGC Adeniyi said.

According to him, intelligence-driven operations by NCS officers in the Adamawa/Taraba Command led to the interception of 199,495 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), adding that, “the operatives of Operation Whirlwind had successfully seized fuel, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦199,495,000, being smuggled across borders using tankers, jerry cans, and drums.”

The CGC also detailed the tactics used by smugglers, including night-time river crossings at Dasin Waterways, illegal storage facilities near border towns, and concealment in unauthorised dispensing points. 

“These economic saboteurs are determined to inflict hardship on law-abiding Nigerians, but let it be clearly understood that the Nigeria Customs Service remains resolute in its mandate to protect our national economy.” He stated.

According to him, Customs operatives carried out targeted interceptions at strategic smuggling routes, including Mova, Dasin, the Galamba-Song axis, and the Mubi-Maiha corridor.

The CGC, however, assured Nigerians that the NCS would continue to adapt its strategies, strengthen intelligence gathering, and collaborate with security agencies to close in on smugglers, adding “There will be no safe haven for them within our operational areas.”

In his closing remarks, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Finance and Administration, ACG Hussain Ejibunu, praised the Customs chief for his leadership and the officers' dedication. 

He also highlighted the importance of public cooperation, urging citizens to report suspicious activities to security agencies.

CGC Honours Trade Modernisation Project Limited for Aiding Customs' Technological Advancement

CGC Honours Trade Modernisation Project Limited for Aiding Customs' Technological Advancement

L-R CGC, ADEWALE ADENIYI, MD, TMP,, Dr. Jummai Umar-Ajijola,

Bisi Akingbade 

The Comptroller General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi MFR has  recognised the Trade Modernisation Project, TMP, limited for its contributions towards improving the Nigeria Customs Service’s technological capabilities, particularly in ICT-driven customs operations and as a partner in the ongoing deployment of newly developed B’odogwu application. 

The award was presented at the Auditorium of the Customs House, Maitama District, Abuja, during the International Customs Day celebration with the theme "Customs Delivering in its Commitment to Efficiency, Security and Prosperity".

Speaking at the event, CGC Adeniyi highlighted the impact of the project on modernising Customs processes, making trade more efficient, and strengthening revenue collection, noting that "partnerships like the one with TMP were crucial in transforming Customs operations."

"As part of our drive for efficiency, we have modernised our processes, and through collaborations like this, we have significantly improved trade facilitation, risk management, and overall performance." He said.

Receiving the award, TMP’s Managing Director, Dr. Jummai Umar-Ajijola, expressed gratitude, describing the recognition as a reflection of the dedication and hard work of her team.

"This award reflects our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that simplify customs procedures, reduce clearance delays, and enhance revenue collection. We value our partnership with the NCS and remain committed to pushing the boundaries of digital transformation in trade." she said.

The event also celebrated outstanding customs officers in revenue generation, technology, and innovation alongside key stakeholders who have contributed to the Service’s success.

While addressing the gathering, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, praised the Service for its role in securing Nigeria’s borders and ensuring smooth trade operations.

"Security cannot be achieved without Customs because you are involved in every aspect of trade and border control. Your adoption of technology and commitment to national security are commendable, and we in the Armed Forces will continue to support your efforts." CDS Musa said.

World Customs Organisation Recognizes SIFAX Group

World Customs Organisation Recognizes SIFAX Group

Bisi Akingbade                                                                                          

The World Customs Organisation, WCO, has commended SIFAX Group for its strategic importance and the excellent service that has become the hallmark of the business conglomerate.

This recognition was given during the presentation of a “Certificate of Merit” to the company by WCO during this year’s International Customs Day celebration in Abuja, Nigeria, with the theme “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity.”

The World Customs Organization, WCO is an intergovernmental organization headquartered in Brussels, Belgium. WCO works on customs-related matters including the development of international conventions, instruments, and tools on topics such as commodity classification, valuation, rules of origin, collection of customs revenue, supply chain, security, and international trade facilitation, among others.

SIFAX Group is one of the few organisations recognized from Nigeria by WCO at the event.

The award was presented by the Chief of Defence of Staff, General Christopher Musa.

According to Ian Saunders, WCO Secretary General, the honour was bestowed on the company “for rendering exceptional service to the international Customs community.”

While responding to this recognition, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman, SIFAX Group lauded both WCO and the Nigeria Customs Service for identifying and honouring the critical role the company has played in facilitating trade globally in its over three decades of operations.

He said: “SIFAX Group has received different awards from stakeholders and governments all around the world, but this honour is special because of the critical role WCO plays in supporting customs administrations globally to facilitate trade and deliver efficient services.

“SIFAX Group has over the years developed a culture of excellent service, stakeholder management, relationship building and community impact for the overall good of the business ecosystem. We are glad that our impact is felt and rewarded not only in Nigeria but globally. We want to thank WCO for this honour and promise this will spur us to up our game in meeting and exceeding expectations in quality service delivery and societal impact.”

Afolabi also lauded the Comptroller General, Nigeria Customs Service, Mr Wale Adeniyi, for his exceptional leadership that has resulted in unprecedented achievements by the Service since he assumed office.

No Truth to Viral Claims: SIFAX Group Clarifies Container Sale Rumours

No Truth to Viral Claims: SIFAX Group Clarifies Container Sale Rumours

Bisi Akingbade 

SIFAX Group a leading multinational organization with investments in maritime, aviation, logistics, oil and gas, hospitality, and financial services. With decades of experience and a commitment to operational excellence has said that it's attention has been drawn to a viral video claiming that one of its subsidiaries, Ports and Cargo Handling Services Limited, has put up over 3,000 containers for sale. 

According to the press statement issued by the Group Head, Corporate Communications, Olumuyiwa Akande indicated that:

"We wish to categorically state the following:

False Representation of SIFAX Group’s Employee:

The individual featured in the video, who identified himself as Oloja Oluwasegun, was seen wearing a SIFAX-branded reflective jacket. After a thorough internal investigation, we can confirm that this individual has never been employed by SIFAX Group or any of its subsidiaries. The misuse of our branded attire is both misleading and concerning.

Unauthorized Sale of Containers:

SIFAX Group operates in full compliance with industry regulations and standards, and at no time have we authorized the sale of containers, whether empty or overtime, as alleged in the video. The claims made in the footage are baseless and do not reflect our organization's policies or practices.

"We urge the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could mislead the public. 

We urge the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could mislead the public. 

"SIFAX Group is currently working closely with law enforcement and other relevant agencies to uncover the source of this misinformation and bring those involved to justice.

"We appreciate the trust our clients, partners, and the general public have reposed in SIFAX Group, and we stay true to our unwavering commitment to professionalism and service delivery.

"SIFAX Group continues to drive economic growth and development across Africa and beyond.

MMA Customs surpasses revenue target for 2024, generates N180.7b revenue

MMA Customs Surpasses Revenue Target for 2024, Generates N180.7b  Revenue 

   CAC MMA, Comptroller Micheal Awe 

Bisi Akingbade 

The Customs Area Controller of Murtala Muhammed Area Command, MMA,  Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Comptroller Micheal Awe has revealed that the command achieved a milestone of N180.7 billion in revenue generation in 2024.

Comptroller Micheal Awe, released this scorecard while briefing pressmen in Ikeja,  Lagos.

Comptroller Awesome said the report showcased a comprehensive overview of the command’s performance.

He added that it also presented its commitment to enforcing the laws and regulations of the service.

Awe said the command facilitated trade and upheld the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.

He said that the command surpassed the N179. 73 billion naira revenue target for 2024 by over one billion naira.

He also  revealed that the command in its relentless pursuit of safeguarding the nation and protecting its citizens against illicit trade, made significant seizures.

Awe listed the items seized to include 21 packages of 225mg tramadol hydrochloride, 50 round 9mm live ammunition, 54 of military hardware and 46 packages of dried sea cucumbers.

“Others are three packages of dried donkey male genitals, 55 pieces of jojel tomahawk semi-automatic rifle, 50 packages of dried Canadian cannabis.

“Also seized are 225 pieces of drones,

 250 pieces of turtles, 1 package of pangolin skin, 1package of porcupine, thorns and mineral stones.

“These seized items have a cumulative Duty-Paid Value (DPV) of N10.51 billion and are a testament to the command’s keen commitment to enforcing customs laws and regulations,” he said.

Comptroller Awesome stated that the command maintained an open-door policy, engaging with stakeholders, sister agencies, and the media to resolve issues of common interest.

He stated that moving forward, the command would continue to innovate, strategise and block loopholes to meet revenue targets.