Apapa Customs Hits N2tr Revenue Collection Aims Target Before December

Apapa Customs Hits N2tr Revenue Collection Aims Target Before December

COMPTR. BABATUNDE OLOMU, CAC APAPA CUSTOMS COMMAND 

... Apapa Customs Contributed 40% of N5.07tr Total Target of Service - Comptroller Olomu

... Plans Award Night for Deserving Officers

By: Bisi Akingbade 

The Customs Area Controller  Apapa Customs Command  of Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller  Babadede Olomu  fsi, has announced achievement of revenue collection of N2.01tr as at November 19, 2024

Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, fsi who disclosed this while addressing officers and men on a parade on Wednesday November 20, 2024 said the command aims at achieving its N2.2tr target for this year by the end of this month ahead of December. 

Comptroller Olomu said the command is drawing inspiration from the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi,MFR who announced the total collection of N5.07tr by the service on Tuesday at the just concluded CGC Conference in Abuja. 

According to him, Apapa Port Command plays a critical role in the overall performance of the service nationwide. .He said the command contributed 40% (forty percent) of the N5.07tr total target of the service that has been met so far, which underscores the high expectations and responsibility on the command.

The Controller urged officers to align with  the outstanding examples set by CGC Adeniyi in revenue collection, trade facilitation, uncompromising enforcement and sustained stakeholder engagement in the service and national interest. 

He charged the officers to keep the trajectory of good revenue and enforcement records sustained and ensure that seizures made from smugglers should be backed with suspects for prosecution. He added that arresting smugglers with their wares would cause greater impact in the fight against smuggling. 

Comptroller Olomu used the opportunity of the parade to update the officers on important highlights from the CGC Conference. He urged them to imbibe the spirit and letter of the theme, which was "Engaging Traditional and New Partners With Purpose". 

Comptroller OLOMU said the NCS 2024 CGC Conference theme aligns with that of the World Customs Organisation which seeks to leverage on achievable gains from cordial relationships across organisations and individuals to achieve customs goals

He listed some outcomes from the conference which include sustenance of diligent import and export cargo  examination with the deployment of hundred percent physical examination where necessary; granting of access to enforcement unit officers to view the Nigetia Integrated Customs Information System, NICIS, platform; and avoidance of Indiscriminate intervention alerts which makes service personnel  appear to be working at cross purposes. According to CAC Olomu,NCS is one and should operate and be seen as one. 

Other fallouts from the CGC Conference announced by the Area Controller are the banning of commercial activities within customs formations and premises. He listed such activities like the engagement of Point of Sales (PoS) operators around customs offices, and involvement of customs officers in clearing jobs, that is doubling as licensed agents, which conflict with their official  mandates

Other messages cascaded from the 2024 CGC Conference announced by Comptroller Olomu are compulsory and routine medical checks for all officers; instituting rewards and honouring outstanding officers for their productivity; development of inter zonal games being put together by the service Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) ; fully automation of transire by first quarter of 2025 and the expansion of the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) and Advance Ruling(AR) scheme

Comptroller Olomu also announced that the command is planning an award night for deserving officers and stakeholders that have contributed to it's success in 2024. He also gave plaques of award to some units and individuals for excellent discharge of their functions. 

The Compliance Unit was honoured for the recovery of over N2b in the last three months. Efforts of the Revenue Recovery Unit that also prevented the loss of N3b within the last three months was also recognised

Assistant Comptroller  M. Samad  received an award from the CAC for due diligence and regular detection of under valuation 

The Controller also honoured Inspector of Customs  Adamu Bashir as best dressed and punctual officer.

Sifax Group: Chairman Donates Building to Alma Mater

Sifax Group: Chairman Donates Building to Alma Mater 

By: Bisi Akingbade 

The Group  Chairman, Sifax Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, has donated a fully equipped building to his alma mater, Baptist Grammar School, Idi-Ishin, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The building features a mini-conference room, staff toilets, a Home Economics laboratory, as well as an accommodation facility for corps members deployed to the school.

The commissioning ceremony, held at the school premises on Thursday, 14th September, 2024, was attended by members of the Baptist Grammar School Idi-Ishin Old Students Association, BAGOSA, teaching and non-teaching staff, representatives from the Oyo State Ministry of Education, students and a delegation from SIFAX Group.

Speaking at the event,  Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, represented by Mrs. Wunmi Eniola-Jegede, Group Coordinating Director, emphasised the importance of giving back and investing in the next generation.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I firmly believe that education is the bedrock of any prosperous society. Every great society is built on the dreams and aspirations of young people—dreams that need nurturing and a conducive environment to blossom. A conducive learning environment is not a luxury; it is a necessity. By providing this facility, we are creating a space where future leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers will be shaped, influenced and developed.

“This facility will serve as a place where students can explore, learn and re-learn. But, more importantly, it is a space where they will build confidence to dream big and aspire for a brighter future.

“My commitment to this project is not just about bricks and mortar—it is about hope and impact, it is about ensuring that no child feels limited by their circumstances, it is about giving back to a community that instilled so much in me and many others, it is about doing my part to create a ripple effect of positive change”, he stated.

The school principal, Mr Eyitayo Alade Bamidele, noted that the donation was a timely gesture, further describing it as a “utility building.”. He also expressed his gratitude to the donor and SIFAX Group for their support and responsiveness during the course of the project.

“When I proposed to the Chairman, SIFAX Group about donating a building to the school, he welcomed the idea and started funding it immediately”, he added.

On her part, Mrs. Jaiyeola Lewis, President of the Baptist Grammar School Idi-Ishin Old Students Association, lauded the development, while encouraging alumni to remain committed to improving the state of the learning facilities in their alma mater.

“Well, we know that government efforts are commendable but we do understand that the government cannot do it alone”, she added.

The building is expected to be fully operational with immediate effect, with plans for additional support to ensure its maintenance and utilisation.

This initiative aligns with SIFAX Group’s commitment to community development and social responsibility, reinforcing its dedication to creating sustainable impact in education and beyond.

Nigeria Customs, India Signs CMAA to bolster Cross-border Trade Development, Improve Enforcement of Customs Laws

Nigeria Customs, India Signs CMAA to bolster Cross-border Trade Development,  Improve Enforcement of Customs Laws

By: By Bisi Akingbade 

In a move to strengthen bilateral relations, the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS,  on 16 November 2023, signed a Customs Mutual Administrative Agreement, CMAA,  with its Indian counterpart.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, represented the NCS during the signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja. 

This agreement formed part of the engagements during the state visit by the Indian Prime Minister on 17 November 2024 at the State House, Abuja. 

CGC Adeniyi described the CMAA as a milestone achievement, culminating from negotiations that began in 2016. He stated:

"The agreement is expected to enhance collaboration between customs administrations, streamline border clearance processes, and curb customs-related offenses. By facilitating the swift clearance of goods and reducing trade costs, the CMAA is set to bolster cross-border trade development and improve the enforcement of customs laws."

Key provisions of the CMAA, as outlined in the MoU, include enforcement of customs laws by ensuring the accurate imposition of duties and taxes, verification processes through the facilitation of proper classification, valuation, and determination of goods' origin, prevention and investigation by strengthening mechanisms to combat customs offenses.

Other items in the CMAA are information exchange through the establishment of robust channels for communication and mutual assistance, including providing expert witnesses where necessary.

The agreement underscores Nigeria's commitment to fostering international trade partnerships while reinforcing the integrity and efficiency of its customs operations. By collaborating with India on customs enforcement and trade facilitation, Nigeria aims to unlock new economic opportunities and deepen its global trade integration.

2024 CGC Conference: Customs, NAFDAC Signs MoU for Strategic Partnership

2024 CGC Conference: Customs, NAFDAC Signs MoU for Strategic Partnership 

L-R  D.G NAFDAC PROF. MOJI ADEYEYE, CGC BASHIR ADEWALE ADENIYI 

By: Bisi Akingbade 

In a landmark move towards safeguarding Nigeria’s public health and national security, the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, have formalised a strategic partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding MoU, on Thursday, 14th November 2024. 

 The event, which took place on the second day of the Comptroller-General of Customs’ 2024 Conference held at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, aims to strengthen collaboration in combatting the influx of illicit pharmaceutical products and other harmful substances into Nigeria.

Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi described the agreement as the culmination of years of dedicated dialogue and coordination between the two agencies. 

Highlighting the critical mandate of the Customs Service in safeguarding national security, public health, and safety, stating, “What we have seen today is a culmination of efforts for several months—I must say, years—of regular consultation between the two of us. This partnership is a response to a major scourge we are facing in the country.”

Emphasising the specific provisions of the MoU, Adeniyi noted that Article 2 of the document outlined a comprehensive scope of collaboration, particularly in intelligence sharing, adding, “We’ll be talking about the exchange of intelligence between our agencies. 

CGC Adeniyi further said, Sometimes, at midnight, NAFDAC DG sends intelligence to me, saying, “We learn that a suspicious container may be birthing in the morning. This kind of real-time information flow is critical to our joint efforts.”

Reflecting on the collaborative bond that has grown between NAFDAC and Customs personnel, CGC Adeniyi emphasised the hands-on commitment shown by officers at the nation’s ports and border stations. 

He said, “When we declared a state of emergency in one of our ports, we were misunderstood, but the reports we have received indicate we are just scratching the surface of illicit pharmaceutical products entering our markets. It is time for all of us to say, collectively, that this will be the beginning of the end. We are going to save Nigeria and the future of our kids from these dangerous products.”

Speaking earlier, NAFDAC’s Director-General, Professor Moji Adeyeye, described the signing of the MoU as a “significant stride”, pointing out the daily impact of the products regulated by her agency on Nigerians. 

She said, “It is important because of you and me,” Adeyeye explained. We consume at least two of our regulated products every day—food and healthcare items. This partnership is about ensuring that the food, drugs, and healthcare products we take are safe and of the highest quality.”

Professor Adeyeye highlighted the threats posed by unregulated and illicit products to national security, as some approved chemicals can be misused by criminals and terrorists, adding, “This is of national significance.”

She lamented, “We have ghost companies that are not on our lists. This MoU marks the beginning of the end of such practices.”

Professor Moji further expressed gratitude for the close partnership with Customs officers, affirming that the initiative transcends individuals and agencies, stressing that, “It’s not about NAFDAC; it’s not about Adeyeye or Adeniyi. It’s about saving the future of our country.”

Nigeria Customs Mourns late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, Postpones Gala/Award Night

Nigeria Customs Service Mourns late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, Postpones Gala/Award Night 

By: Bisi Akingbade 

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, wishes has announced the postponement of its Gala and Award Night, initially scheduled for Friday, November 15, 2024, in Abuja. This decision is taken to allow Nigeria Customs Service identify with the mood of the Nation in mourning the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, whose legacy of service to our nation remains in our hearts.

According to the press release issued by the Chief Superintendent of Customs 

National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada stated that 

the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, conveyed deep condolences to the family of the late Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, as well as to his colleagues and the entire Nigerian Armed Forces. “Lt. Gen. Lagbaja was a leader of immense dedication and sacrifice. His contributions to Nigeria’s security and inter-agency cooperation are immeasurable,” said CGC Adeniyi. “We stand with the Nigerian Army, his family, and all Nigerians in honouring his memory and service.”

The Nigeria Customs Service acknowledges the weight of this moment, joining all who mourn the passing of a steadfast leader. 

"The rescheduling of the Gala and Award Night allows us to pay our last respects to a man whose impact resonates across all security services and beyond.

"Further information regarding the event's rescheduled date will be communicated in due time. We appreciate the understanding and patience of all stakeholders, partners, and guests.

Nigeria Customs Service Hits 5.07Tr 2024 Revenue Target

Nigeria Customs Service Hits 5.07Tr  2024 Revenue Target

...As CGC Adeniyi Pledges Stronger Partnerships to Enhance Trade Facilitation

By: Bisi Akingbade 

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS has achieved its 2024 revenue target, collecting N5.07 trillion with over a month left in the fiscal year. This milestone reflects the Service’s ongoing dedication to trade facilitation and economic growth.

Speaking at the 2024 Comptroller-General of Customs Conference in Abuja on Wednesday 13 November, CGC Adeniyi expressed pride in the NCS’s record-breaking achievement, noting that revenue collection surpassed the target by 10 percent. Themed "Nigeria Customs Service: Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose," the conference gathered stakeholders from various sectors to explore ways of strengthening customs operations through collaboration.

According to CGC Adeniyi, this revenue figure underscores the positive impact of stakeholder collaboration and modernised customs systems, which have both enhanced efficiency and transparency across the Service. "This accomplishment aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's economic transformation agenda and showcases our commitment to a transparent and efficient customs system," he added.

He outlined recent improvements following the NCS’s Continental Declaration of 2023, a commitment to revolutionise customs processes through digital transformation. Major reforms have included rolling out a 24-hour cargo clearance initiative at key ports, launching a one-stop cargo alert system, and streamlining examination protocols.

"Additionally, the Service has introduced the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) scheme, selecting initial participants who have demonstrated exceptional compliance with customs regulations". He stated.

CGC Adeniyi emphasised Nigeria’s advancing role in African trade integration, announcing the country’s first successful shipment under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement. He noted that the NCS’s commitment to facilitating trade led to Nigeria’s improved ranking on the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) index, where the Service rose by 33 places, now ranked among the top five agencies for trade facilitation.

"Our commitment to trade facilitation has contributed to this improved standard and strengthens our position in regional trade," said Adeniyi.

In enforcement efforts, CGC highlighted the NCS’s robust enforcement measures, which have been instrumental in protecting Nigeria’s borders and economy. This year, the Service intercepted illicit goods valued at NGN 28.1 billion. A key initiative, “Operation Whirlwind,” in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), has specifically targeted the smuggling of petroleum products, preserving Nigeria’s resources and economic interests.

"Our enforcement strategy, which includes a state of emergency declared at major ports, has been effective in intercepting a wide range of illegal goods, from narcotics to counterfeit pharmaceuticals,” he noted.

As the NCS wraps up 2024 with historic revenue and strengthened partnerships, CGC Adeniyi pledged to continue efforts toward trade facilitation, enforcement, and international collaboration, positioning Nigeria for a more robust economic future.

WIMAfrica, SIFAX Group Partners to Champion Gender Equality in Maritime Industry

WIMAfrica, SIFAX Group Partners to Champion Gender Equality in Maritime Industry

By: Bisi Akingbade 

Women in Maritime Africa, WIMAfrica,  and Sifax Group has met to discuss on a programme that will empower women to pursue and excel in maritime career 

The strategic meeting which was held at SIFAX Headquarters in Lagos.

The two organizations aim to foster mentorship, sponsorship, and skills development programs that will empower women to pursue and excel in maritime careers, where female representation remains below 1%. Key figures from WIMAfrica, including Continental Vice President Mrs. Carolyn Ufere and Nigeria’s President Mrs. Rollens Macfoy, emphasized the need for corporate partnerships to expand access to training and professional networks for women. 

SIFAX’s Coordinating Director, Mrs. Wunmi Eniola-Jegede, expressed the Group’s commitment to gender inclusivity and highlighted the presence of women in leadership roles across its various sectors.

WIMAfrica extended an invitation for SIFAX Group to support its upcoming conference in Lagos, themed “New Economy and Moving Forward for the Next Generation,” which seeks to inspire young women to explore maritime career paths like engineering and marine security. 

This collaboration between WIMAfrica and SIFAX Group marks a crucial move toward an inclusive future in Africa’s maritime industry.

CGC Conference: PBAT Says Vision To Strengthen Nigeria's Economic, Development Base Stands

CGC Conference: PBAT Says Vision To Strengthen Nigeria's Economic, Development Base Stands

... This achievement demonstrates that our policies are yielding positive results, making Nigeria increasingly attractive for both domestic and international investors. 

By: Bisi Akingbade 

His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tunubu, GCFR , President and Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has said his vision to strengthen Nigeria's economic base and deliver positive growth and development for the benefit of all Nigerians has not changed.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Comptroller -General of Customs Conference at Trans Corp, Hilton Hotel, Abuja today in Lagos.

He said "Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, I am delighted to join you at this significant gathering. Sixteen months ago, My administration began with a clear and unwavering vision - to strengthen Nigeria's economic base and deliver positive growth and development for the benefit of all Nigerians. This vision remains unchanged. In pursuing this vision, we have built upon existing foundations while introducing necessary reforms to adapt to our evolving economic realities. Our focus has been on strengthening what works, refining what needs improvement, and introducing new initiatives where gaps exist. We recognized that certain economic policies, though useful in their time, needed to be realigned with current global economic dynamics to better serve our national interests and the wellbeing of all Nigerians.

"In pursuit of this vision, we embarked on bold yet necessary economic reforms. Working with expert advice and careful consideration of our unique circumstances, we implemented strategic policy adjustments to strengthen our economy. The removal of fuel subsidy and unification of our exchange rate system were crucial steps toward building a more transparent and sustainable economic framework. While these decisions required short-term adjustments from all Nigerians, they were essential to redirect our resources toward productive investments that will yield long-term benefits for our people. These reforms have already begun showing positive results, setting the stage for sustainable economic growth and improved prosperity for all Nigerians.

"Building on these foundational reforms, we have expanded our focus to strengthen Nigeria's position in global trade and investment. Through strategic initiatives, we are enhancing trade facilitation, modernizing our port infrastructure, and streamlining business processes to reduce barriers to trade. Our commitment to creating an enabling business environment has resonated with the international investment community. The confidence in our economy is reflected in the significant surge in foreign direct investments, which has exceeded $30 billion in the past year. This achievement demonstrates that our policies are yielding positive results, making Nigeria increasingly attractive for both domestic and international investors. More importantly, these improvements are creating new opportunities for Nigerian businesses to participate more actively in global trade.

"Central to the success of these economic initiatives is the role of our strategic institutions and their dedicated personnel. Our vision required government agencies to be proactive in aligning their statutory responsibilities with the broader national economic objectives. Agencies needed to demonstrate initiative in identifying opportunities within their mandates that would best serve and advance our national aspirations. I am pleased to note that the Nigeria Customs Service is one of the agencies that has risen to this expectation, demonstrating how government institutions can effectively contribute to our economic transformation agenda while fulfilling their core mandates.

"This alignment is clearly demonstrated in the Service's comprehensive modernization agenda. In responding to our administration's call for enhanced trade facilitation and economic growth, the Service has introduced significant reforms including the Advanced Ruling system and the Authorised Economic Operator Program. These initiatives, which align with global best practices, show how agencies can innovatively implement solutions that advance our national economic objectives while meeting international standards. Such reforms not only enhance trade facilitation but also create a more predictable business environment that supports our broader economic goals.

"The results of these initiatives across the Service's core mandates have been encouraging. The Nigeria Customs Service has shown remarkable progress in revenue generation, enhancing government's capacity to fund critical national development projects. Through strategic reforms, the Service is strengthening Nigeria's position as a trade-friendly nation, particularly in the areas of export promotion and port efficiency. This has contributed significantly to our improved global ranking in the ease of doing business. The Service has also demonstrated that effective trade facilitation can coexist with strong regulatory compliance, as evidenced by its enhanced border security and anti-smuggling operations. These achievements affirm our administration's belief that public institutions, when properly aligned with national objectives, can effectively drive transformative change.

"While these results are encouraging, they represent only the beginning of what we can achieve through focused institutional reforms and alignment with national objectives. It is therefore fitting that this conference centres on the theme "NCS Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose." This theme reflects our administration's broader vision of fostering strategic partnerships and collaborative approaches to governance and economic management. It acknowledges that in today's interconnected global economy, sustainable progress requires us to strengthen existing partnerships while building new ones, always guided by clear purpose and shared objectives.

"Let me assure you that our administration remains committed to supporting the Nigeria Customs Service in its modernization and reform initiatives. We will continue to provide the necessary policy backing and enablement required to strengthen the Service's capacity to deliver on its mandates. This includes support for technological advancement, infrastructure development, and capacity building programs that align with global best practices.

"As you convene for your deliberations over the next few days, I urge you to build upon these foundations with clear cognizance of our regional and continental obligations. Your discussions should be particularly timely and strategic, considering Nigeria's role in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and our position as West Africa's largest economy. Focus on innovative approaches that will strengthen existing partnerships and forge new ones to advance our national interests within this expanding trade landscape. Your deliberations should chart a path for enhancing our trade processes and compliance frameworks in ways that position Nigeria to maximize the opportunities presented by regional and continental integration while maintaining robust border security. The outcomes of this conference should provide a clear roadmap for achieving these objectives in line with our national economic aspirations.

"To our international partners and stakeholders present here today, your participation at this conference exemplifies the global dimension of our reform agenda. Nigeria, as Africa's largest economy, is determined to deepen its integration into global value chains and strengthen its position as a reliable trading partner. Our commitment to sustainable economic reforms, trade facilitation, and creation of an enabling business environment is firm and irreversible. We see our international partnerships as crucial catalysts in our journey towards becoming a more competitive player in global trade, particularly as we position ourselves to harness the opportunities presented by expanding regional and continental markets.

"Distinguished participants, as we forge ahead with these partnerships and celebrate our progress thus far, we must maintain our focus on the journey ahead. Economic transformation is a continuous process that requires sustained commitment, innovation, and adaptation to emerging global trends. The Nigeria Customs Service, as a key facilitator of international trade and guardian of our borders, will continue to play a fundamental role in advancing our national economic objectives. The success of our reform agenda significantly depends on the Service's ability to balance trade facilitation with regulatory compliance while fostering meaningful partnerships.

"As I declare this conference open, I encourage all participants to bring their expertise, insights, and innovative ideas to the discussions ahead. Your deliberations over the next few days should not only address current challenges but also anticipate future developments in global trade. The collective outcome of your engagement will be valuable in shaping Nigeria's trade policies and strengthening our position in the international trading system. I look forward to receiving the recommendations that will emerge from this conference, particularly those that will enhance our trade facilitation initiatives while ensuring effective administration of our borders.

Onne Command Intercepts Containers Laden with Illicit Drugs Worth N46bn, Donkey Skin

Onne Command Intercepts Containers Laden with Illicit Drugs Worth N46bn, Donkey Skin

Generates N550bn as Revenue 

By: Bisi Akingbade 

In line with the Comptroller General of Customs Policy thrust of consolidation and collaboration the Area 2 Customs of Nigeria Customs Command, Onne Port, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, of twenty 40feet and one 20feet containers laden with illicit drugs, which pose a severe threat to public health and safety with 20feet container laden with donkey skin while working with Sister Agencies such as NDLEA, DSS, Quarantine and NAFDAC among others.

Comptroller Mohammed Babadede made this disclosure during a press briefing today at his command in Onne.

He said "The breakdown is as follows: 2,624,053 bottles of 100ml Cough Syrup Codeine, 7,530,000 tablets of 50mg Really Extra Diclofenac, 3,500,000 tablets of 5mg Trodol Benzhexol, 27,048,900  tablets of 225mg Royal Tapentadol/ Tramadol/Tamolx, 7,665,000 tablets of 200ml fake/counterfeit Gonorrhea Antibiotics without NAFDAC number,15,600,000 tablets of fake 4mg chlorphenamine, 33,840,00 tablets of 2mg fake Lemotil Loperamine, 19,430 pieces of Chilly cutter used for concealment, 20,238 pieces of Sanitary Fittings Tap/toilet seat used for concealment, 26,400 tubes of 30mg  fake Permethrin cream

Others are: 480,000 tablets of  fake Stapsiril, 112,500 tablets of fake multi mineral supplement, 28 drums of diphenhydramine Hydrochloride ip of 25kg each, 3,388 pieces of waste connector used for concealment, 2,100 pieces of Donkey Skin

The Duty paid Value of the twenty-one containers totals ₦46,399,119,810, while the Duty paid value for the donkey skin is ₦441,000,000

These seizures underscore our unwavering commitment to combatting illicit medicine and ensuring the safety of the public. “The implementation of this state of emergency by the CGC has proven effective in enhancing our operational capabilities and ensuring that we can act decisively against those who seek to undermine our nation’s security.”

On Anti-smuggling activities, the Controller of the Area 2 Command, Comptroller M Babadede said the Command under his stewardship this year, including these seizures on display has now made a total seizure of 63 containers comprising of: 844 Riffles, 112,500 pieces of live ammunition, Over 6,469,253 bottles of 100ml syrup with codeine, Over  56,878,900 tablets of 225mg Royal Tapentadol /Tramadol/Tamolx.

"Among others for violations or contraventions of various customs laws and breach of procedures as provided under the revised import prohibition guidelines of the Common External Tariff 2022-2026, as well as Sections 233, 234, 235, 245, 246 of Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. The Duty Paid Value of the seizures made so far is ₦130,562,660,407

Comptroller Babadede said  that "in the area of Trade facilitation, the Command utilizes World Customs Organization trade facilitation tool to generate maximum revenue which is:

Time Release Study (TRS) 

The result of utilizing this tool within the past months of this year has been unprecedented.

"In the area of Export, you would agree with me that export play a crucial role in any nation’s economy and Nigeria relaying on it promotes economic growth, job creation and provides favourable balance of trade and exchange rate for the naira to the dollar.

 "In the Command a total of 2,436,408.33 Metric tonnes of goods with a free on board (FOB) value of $826,613,015.87 was processed through the Command. 

Still within the past months of this year, In the Area of revenue the Command as at this morning has generated a total revenue of Five hundred and Fifty Billion, Four hundred and Thirty-One Million, Five hundred and Fifty-Nine thousand, Five hundred and Ninety-Eight naira, Forty-One kobo (₦550,431,559,598.41) which translate to 89% of the annual target of 618 Billion given to the Command. 

Operation Whirlwind Curtals PMS Smuggling,, Seizes PMS Worth N84,870 Billion

Operation Whirlwind Curtals PMS Smuggling,, Seizes PMS Worth N84,870 Billion 

... Engages NSA, NMDPRA, IPMAN, DAPPMAN, NMDPRA for further investigation.

By: Bisi Akingbade 

The operation WHIRLWIND exercise has no doubt saved the country huge resources and enhanced national security as the smuggling of PMS out of the country through Kwara land borders has been considerably curtailed.

Few months into the ongoing operations whirlwind appreciable results have been recorded, particularly in the areas of illegal smuggling of petroleum motor spirit (PMS). 

It will be recalled that the exercise, which commenced in May, 2024 involves the collaboration of Nigerian Customs Service, NCS, being coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser ONSA.

The operation, through the leadership of Compt. Hussaini Ejibunu took a definitive step to put Nigeria on the path to suppress smuggling of PMS out of the country through the exercise. 

Operation Whirlwind of Nigeria Customs Service has saved 

Our operatives comprising of enforcement officers and Customs Intelligent Unit, CIU,  covering Niger/Kwara axis has continued to record large number of seizures and arrests. 

"On 17th and 18th September, 2024, respectively,  My team along Gwanara axis of the state, intercepted 38 and 61 Kegs of 25 liters of PMS respectively, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) en route Benin Republic with a duty paid value of  Two Million Nine hundred and seventy thousand naira (N2, 970,000.00)

"Similarly, on Monday, 30th Sept, 2024, a team of officers led by Chief Superintendent of Customs Waziri Mohammed at about 1130pm around Gure/kusoboso intercepted 90 kegs of 25 liters of PMS with a duty paid value of Two Million Seven Hundred Thousand  (N2,700,000.00)

He added some notable seizures made by the operatives include two trucks with registration number FST-524 XG and JJJ-14-XQ respectively stocked with 33,000 liters each, filled with PMS all intended for smuggling out with a duty paid value of  Seventy Nine Million Two Thousand (N79, 200, 000.000)

The total Duty Paid Value of the seizure is Eighty Four Million, Eight Hundred and Seventy Thousand N84, 870,000,000

The action of the smugglers contravene Section 245 & 254 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. 

Comptroller Ejibunu warned smugglers to desist from their wicked acts or risk arrest. He stated.

Comptroller Ejibunu said " the service has engaged with stakeholders, including the National Security Adviser, NSA, Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Agency, NMDPRA, and security agencies, to combat fuel smuggling Industry stakeholders, such as the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN, Petroleum Tanker Drivers, PTD, and Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria, DAPPMAN, have also committed to supporting the operation. He concluded that the two tankers has been handed over to Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Agency, NMDPRA,  for further investigation 

His words: "We recorded this sterling feat largely due to the leadership style and support of the Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR and the entire management team of the Service.

 He went further to say that people are suffering due to artificial scarcity, but they are busy smuggling these petroleum products outside the country to make money. "It’s either they stop this act or we continue to arrest them". We have zero tolerance for this act, he warned.

One suspect was apprehended in connection with these smuggling activities and was granted administrative bail.