Area 2 Command ONNE Intercepts 76 Containers Laden With Uncustomed Goods, DPV Worth ₦150.8Bn

Area 2 Command ONNE Intercepts 76 Containers Laden With Uncustomed Goods, DPV Worth ₦150.8Bn

By:  Bisi Akingbade 

The Customs Area Controller of Area 2 Command, ONNE, Comptroller Mohammed Babadede has announced the remarkable achievements throughout the year 2014 in the struggle against Smuggling and illicit trade.

Briefing the press at the end of the year activities today at his command in Onne, Rivers State. Comptroller  Babandede said that "It is imperative I acquaint you with all the successes we achieved throughout the year 2024 as today marks the last day of the year. Since our last engagement on the 11th of November 2024, I am pleased to inform you that the Nigeria Customs Service, Area 2 Command, Onne has recorded another remarkable achievement in our ongoing battle against smuggling and illicit trade.

"Our vigilant officers and men have successfully intercepted and seized an additional 12 containers (40 feet) of illicit medicine. 

"This is a testament to our unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health, ensuring security of our nation and compliance with Nigeria’s import regulations. This also justifies our commitment to trade facilitation, transparency, effective and efficient service delivery.

The breakdown of the  seized items are: 1,721,100 bottles of 100ml Cough Syrup Codeine, 510,000 tablets of 50mg Really Extra Diclofenac, 7,100,000 tablets of 225mg Royal apple Tramadol and Tramaking, 3,461 pieces of Sanitary ware Fittings used for concealment, 840 pieces of Chilly cutter used for concealment, 153 cartons of TVS rubber with  Duty paid Value of the twelve containers is ₦20,309,890,800

Comptroller Babandede further said that this latest seizure underscores the passion and diligence of the officers and men of the Onne Command in ensuring that illicit drug and other harmful goods do not find their way into our country through our area of responsibility. Our efforts are geared toward securing the health and safety of our citizens while upholding the integrity of entry points into the country through the Onne, port axis.

"We appreciate the continued support and collaboration of all stakeholders, including the media, in amplifying our message and efforts to combat smuggling. Together, we can build a safer and healthier nation.

"It is worth noting that the morale and dedication of our officers have been significantly bolstered by the Comptroller-General of Customs' award, recognizing Area 2 Command as the best Command in anti-smuggling operations. This honor has further strengthened our resolve, and I assure you that we will not relent in performing our duties to protect the lives and well-being of Nigerians.

In the recently released 2024 promotion for General Duty/Support Staff for officers and men of the Service, the Area 2 Command got some officers promoted as well. A total of 14 Deputy Comptrollers were elevated to the rank of Comptroller. A total of 6 Assistant Comptrollers were elevated to the rank of Deputy Comptrollers and 17 Chief Superintendent of Customs were elevated to the rank of Assistant Comptrollers. Other newly promoted officers include 22 to Chief Superintendent of Customs, 4 to Superintendent of Customs, 18 to Deputy Superintendent of Customs, 14 to Assistant Superintendent of One and 16 to Assistant Superintendent of Two. Junior Officers were also promoted as 9 got Inspector of Customs, 3 got Customs Assistant One and 3 got Customs Assistant Two

He also appreciated the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi mfr, who in September this year promised to reward Officers and men of the Command for the role they played in the Interception of 844 units of riffles and 112,500 pieces of live ammunition. In keeping to his promise a total of Eight (8) Officers of the Command were given special promotion.

"Earlier in the year the Command was given a revenue target of 618 billion naira. I am glad to inform you that as at this morning the Command with the aid of stakeholder engagement, synergy, collaboration and intelligence sharing, has surpass the target given by generating a total revenue of 634 billion Naira which accounts for 103% of the annual target. This amount is over the 2023 collection by 321 billion Naira and represents 98% increase over the 2023 generated revenue.

"In the area of anti-smuggling the Command made a total of 76 container seizures comprising of arms, ammunition, illicit medicine, vegetable oil, foot wares, donkey skin, used cloths among others uncustomed goods used as concealment with a duty paid value of ₦150,872,551,207

"In export, the major commodities exported through this axis comprises of Agro and Mineral resources namely: sesame seeds, aluminum ingot, granular urea in bulk, wheat bran, orange peel among others and a total of 2,707,339.22 Metric tonnes of goods with a free on board (FOB) value of $952,986,490.99 which is equivalent to ₦1,261,039,933,168.99 was processed through the Command this year". 

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NCS: TINCAN ISLAND PORT COMMAND CLARIFIES MISLEADING CLAIMS BY US RETURNEE

NCS:  TINCAN ISLAND PORT COMMAND CLARIFIES MISLEADING CLAIMS BY US RETURNEE

By: Bisi Akingbade 

The attention of the Nigeria Customs Service, Tincan Island Port Command, has been drawn to an online publication by a 70-year-old US returnee, Mr. Olukayode David-Albert, alleging frustration over the sum of ₦76 million purportedly demanded to clear his two vehicles and personal belongings. The Command considers it necessary to address these claims and provide the public with factual clarity regarding the situation.

In line with the ECOWAS Common External Tariff (CET) 2022–2026, Schedule 2 No. 8 (3), it is expressly stated that goods classified as “baggage” for Nigerian citizens who have resided outside Nigeria for at least nine months may be brought in duty-free. However, this provision explicitly excludes vehicles or goods intended for sale, barter, or exchange.

Consequently, while Mr. David-Albert is eligible to import his personal belongings duty-free, the two vehicles in his consignment are not exempted from duty payments. Specifically, the luxurious 2024 Hyundai SUV attracts an Import Duty rate of 20%, a levy of 20%, and a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 7.5%, in compliance with Nigeria's customs regulations. The Command determined the appropriate duty value for the two vehicles to be ₦34,969,374.00. This value is significantly less than the ₦53.5 million alleged as a "compromise" amount in the publication.

    

According to the press statement by the Superintendent of Customs Public Relations Officer, Tincan Island Port Command, Ngozi Okwara, stated that "It is disheartening that Mr. David-Albert has resorted to making unsubstantiated claims in the media rather than complying with established procedures. The Command categorically states that at no point did any officer of the Tincan Island Port Command request for ₦76 million as alleged. If Mr. David-Albert has evidence of such misconduct, he is encouraged to come forward and identify the said officer for further necessary action".

The Command further wishes to remind the public that one of the core roles of the Service is to facilitate the clearance of legitimate goods. However, the onus remains on Mr David to meet the statutory requirements for duty payment. It is pertinent to note that similar regulations apply in advanced countries where Mr. David-Albert previously resided, and such behavior of attempting to circumvent due process would not be entertained there.

The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to upholding transparency, professionalism, and fairness in its operations. The Tincan Island Port Command will continue to enforce the law without fear or favor while supporting legitimate trade.

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CGC Adeniyi, Hon. Abejide Charge Customs Officers to Uphold Professionalism

CGC Adeniyi, Hon. Abejide Charge Customs Officers to Uphold Professionalism

… As NCCSC Graduates 100 Officers from Senior, Junior Courses

By: Bisi Akingbade 

The Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, NCCSC, Gwagwalada, on Monday, December 16, 2024, held a graduation ceremony for 100 officers who completed Senior Course 11 and Junior Course 20.

 The event was attended by the Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC, Adewale Adeniyi, and the Chairman of the House Committee on Customs and Excise, Hon. Leke Abejide, as the Special Guest of Honour. Both dignitaries, in their addresses, emphasised the crucial role of professionalism in effectively discharging the duties of a customs officer and contributing to national development.

In his remarks, CGC Adeniyi commended the graduates for their commitment throughout the six-month training, urging them to uphold professionalism, discipline, and the core values of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). He highlighted the importance of utilising their newly acquired skills to strengthen border security, combat smuggling, and enhance revenue generation.

Hon. Abejide congratulated the officers on completing the demanding training programme, describing it as the foundation for the professionalism required to execute their duties effectively. He encouraged them to adhere to the recently enacted Customs Act 2023 and emphasised the need for continuous learning and dedication to their roles.

The Commandant of the College, Acting Assistant Comptroller-General (Ag. ACG) Oluyomi Adebakin, conferred the titles of Pass Senior Course (PSC) and Pass Junior Staff Course (PJSC) on the graduates. She commended their resilience and urged them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, leadership, and discipline as they returned to their respective postings.

One of the graduands, Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Ibrahim, praised the Service for its foresight in prioritising capacity building. According to him, “Discipline, harmonisation of customs procedures—the way we do things differently—and the ability to work under pressure are some of the cardinal lessons taught in the college.” He thanked CGC Adeniyi and his management team, the former Commandant, ACG Kingsley Egwu, and the current Commandant, Ag. ACG Oluyomi Adebakin, and all the directing staff of the college for the knowledge imparted to him and his colleagues.

The ceremony was preceded by a regimental dinner on December 12, 2024, a longstanding tradition of the College. During the dinner, CGC Adeniyi underscored the importance of discipline, camaraderie, and teamwork, encouraging the graduates to apply these values in their service to the nation.

The event reinforced the Nigeria Customs Service's dedication to training and developing officers to meet the evolving demands of border security and revenue generation.

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NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE MANAGEMENT APPROVES PROMOTION OF 1,419 JUNIOR OFFICERS

NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE MANAGEMENT APPROVES PROMOTION OF 1,419 JUNIOR OFFICERS

By: Bisi Akingbade 

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Management has approved the promotion of 1,419 junior officers across various ranks. 

This significant decision was ratified during the 10th Management meeting, chaired by the Comptroller General of Customs, CGC, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, on November 29, 2024. 

In a press statement issued by the Chief Superintendent of Customs National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, stated by that this comprehensive promotion list encompasses both General Duty and Support Staff who excelled in the 2024 promotion exercise. Specifically, 346 General Duty and 384 Support Staff officers were elevated from Assistant Inspector of Customs, AIC, to Inspector of Customs, IC; 4 General Duty and 13 Support Staff officers advanced from Customs Assistant I, CAI, to Assistant Inspector of Customs, AIC; 372 General Duty and 59 Support Staff officers moved up from Customs Assistant II, CAII, to Customs Assistant I, CAI; and 188 General Duty and 54 Support Staff officers were promoted from Customs Assistant III, CAIII to Customs Assistant II, CAII.

This strategic advancement underscores the transformative leadership of the NCS management team under the visionary stewardship of CGC Adeniyi. By prioritising career growth as a cornerstone of workforce motivation, his administration inspires a culture of excellence, empowering employees to achieve their full potential and driving the organisation toward unparalleled service delivery.

In extending his heartfelt congratulations, the CGC urges the newly promoted men to redouble their efforts in fulfilling the Service’s core mandates of revenue generation, suppression of smuggling, and trade facilitation.

Additionally, the promotion list for senior officers is currently being processed, pending approval by the Nigeria Customs Service Board.

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COWA Inaugurates TINCAN Secretariat, empowers 14 Members, Widows

COWA Inaugurates TINCAN Secretariat, empowers 14 Members, Widows

By: Bisi Akingbade 

 The Customs Officers Wives Association, COWA, has inaugurated its Secretariat at TINCAN to enhance its operations.

The association’s President, Mrs Kikelomo Adeniyi, also empowered about 14 members, including widows at the inauguration.

 "Adeniyi said that the inauguration of the new secretariat showed significant importance and underscores the collective commitment to the principles of support, empowerment, and solidarity that define COWA.

She commended the Acting Assistant Comptroller General, Dera Nnadi, adding that under his remarkable stewardship, the Tin Can Island command surpassed an extraordinary milestone, crossing the one trillion naira revenue mark.

She said that Nnadi’s leadership had transformed TINCAN command with the renovation and modernisation of the administrative building standing as a testament to his dedication to excellence.

Adeniyi said that Nnadi’s achievements had not only enhanced the efficiency of the command, but also inspired pride in all those privileged to serve under him.

“Your unwavering support for COWA is deeply appreciated.

“Your efforts to provide us with a befitting office within this command speak volumes about your understanding of the importance of uplifting the families of those who serve in the Nigeria Customs Service.

“Your generosity has planted seeds of hope and empowerment, and we are forever grateful.

“Your dedication to the welfare of our members and the successes we celebrate today are the fruits of your hard work and that of your exceptional team,” she said.

She said that the commissioning of the office was an achievement as well as a legacy that will serve as a beacon of hope and progress for all members of COWA at the command.

“This secretariat will serve as a sanctuary where ideas are nurtured, initiatives are developed, and support systems are strengthened.

“It will empower us to better serve our members, especially the widows and other vulnerable individuals among us.

“With this office, we can organise skill acquisition programmes hold regular meetings, and implement welfare initiatives more effectively,”Adeniyi said.

She said that the secretariat would enable COWA to establish a stronger connection with members, ensuring that no one is left out or forgotten.

Adeniyi urged COWA members to continue to walk on the path of unity, strength, and progress to honore the sacrifices of their husbands by building a strong, supportive, and impactful association.

The COWA Chairperson, TINCAN Island command, Mrs Chinelo Dera-Nnadi, commended Adeniyi for her unwavering dedication to empowering the wives of customs officers.

Dera-Nnadi said that her leadership had been instrumental in ensuring that every customs officer’s wife has the opportunity to thrive and be self- sustained.

She said that the mission of COWA was to ensure that every wife of a customs officer was free from poverty and is empowered to achieve self-sustainability.

“Our mission is to equip these women with the tools they need to attain economic independence through education, sensitisation, and capacity building.

"Today we are empowering 14 members who have gone through vocational training with equipment and some take off grant. We are also extending our support to widows among us.

“In line with this mission and vision, we are privileged today to have our national president commission the newly revamped secretariat, we also appreciate the additional financial support from our President to beneficiaries including the windows.

“Additionally, we are proud to recognise some of our members who have completed the skill acquisition programmes in Multi-purpose liquid soap production, Pastry baking, and Production of all-purpose seasoning powder, ” she said.

She expressed her gratitude to her husband, Mr Dera Nnadi, who is the Customs Area Controller of Tin Can Island Command, and his team for their support.

The Acting Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Dera Nnadi, appreciated the Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi, for given him opportunity to head various commands and contribute to the revenue collection and surprised smugglers.

Nnadi commended all the officers in the command, as well as the media, for supporting him to achieve the milestones.

The Assistant Comptroller-General, who is also the Zonal Coordinator, Zone”A”, Charles Orbih, commended Customs wives for supporting their husbands in building supportive communities.

Orbih said that the secretariat would be a hub for empowerment and resources, adding that it will serve as a venue for shared experiences.

“When you officers know that their loved ones are engaged, their focus can remain on their important work by protecting our borders and facilitating legitimate trade.

“I will like to commend COWA president for all her support , your tireless effort and passion have yeilded magnificent edifice across other commands of COWA,”Orbih said.

In her goodwill message, the Vice Chairman, National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarder, NAGAFF,, Princess Chi Ezeh, said that the command had made a history by building the secretariat.

She said that the command also made history by crossing the trillion Naira mark in revenue, adding that the achievement of revenue generation was only possible with the support of the stakeholders.

She commended the COWA president for empowering members and reducing poverty in the environment.

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FCT AREA COMMAND: COMPTROLLER OLU EMMANUEL HOSTS OONI OF IFE

FCT AREA COMMAND: COMPTROLLER OLU EMMANUEL HOSTS OONI OF IFE

…Harps on the CGC’s mandate on collaboration 

By: Bisi Akingbade 

The Customs Area Controller, FCT Area Command and his management team hosted the Ooni of IFE. HRM, OBA,Dr. ADEYEYE ANITAN BABATUNDE OGUNWUSI,OJAJA, II. at the Command Office complex off Bill Clinton Drive, Airport Road, FCT-Abuja on a familiarization visit.

The Ooni of Ife, OJAJA, II expressed gratitude for the warm reception given to him by the Controller despite the short notice and also stated that the aim of his visit was to know how one of their sons is doing and he is impressed with the level of achievements and contributions he has made to Service.

The controller in his response, expressed his appreciation to the Ooni for the honor given to him by his presence at the Command, in his words, he sees this visit as a moral booster and encouragement to keep working hard for the greater good of the country.  He also stated that other paramount rulers should emulate this act by visiting their sons and daughters to encourage them to continue the good work they are doing for the nation.

The Ooni of ife, before departing gave the Controller, Officers & Men of the Command his Royal and fatherly blessings and also admonished everyone to be diligent in carrying out their statutory duties. 

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Sustain Tempo of High Revenue With Compliance, CGC Tells Comptroller Olomu

Sustain Tempo of High Revenue With Compliance, CGC Tells Comptroller Olomu

... As Apapa Command Honours Outstanding Stakeholders

Comptroller General of Customs, CGC, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR has commended the Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, fsi for the command's outstanding revenue collection of over N2.2tr and urged him to sustain the tempo. 

The CGC who said this in Apapa at the command's end of the year party and award ceremony also harped on the need for compliance and synergies as necessary strategies to greater productivity at the port. According to him, compliance is a competitive advantage. 

Represented by Deputy Comptroller General Caroline Niagwan, DCG Tariff and Trade, Adeniyi congratulated the Customs Area Controller and all the officers and men of Apapa Area Command for the milestone achieved in revenue collection to the tune of N2.2tr and still counting which has earned the command multiple accolades

"It is with immense pleasure that I stand before you today to celebrate a shared commitment to compliance and excellence in trade. This award ceremony is a testament to your dedication to ethical business practices, adherence to regulations, and unwavering support for the principles that drive Nigeria's economic growth.

"Compliance is not merely a requirement; it is a competitive advantage. It fosters transparency, reduces operational risks, and strengthens the trust between businesses and regulatory authorities. It also positions compliant stakeholders to enjoy streamlined processes, faster clearance times, and access to the numerous benefits that come with being recognized as trusted trade partners.

"As a Service, we understand that sustaining compliance can sometimes require capacity building, especially as global trade evolves. To this end, the Service is committed to providing the necessary training, technical assistance, and partnerships that will empower you with the knowledge and tools to maintain this high standard. 

"Our goal is to ensure that every stakeholder remains. competitive, innovative,  and aligned with global best practices.

"By working together, we can unlock even greater opportunities for growth. Compliant stakeholders not only contribute to national revenue but also drive economic development, attract foreign investments, and enhance Nigeria's position in international trade" Adeniyi said

In his welcome speech, Comptroller Olomu expressed appreciation to the CGC and the customs management team for always providing the direction and inspiration to  the command in it's drive to meet government's expectations 

He described the end of year party as many things rolled up in one as it strengthens the stakeholders bond as a community of government and private sector collaborators working together for the betterment of Nigeria; it's also to celebrate together as the year 2024 ends and honour those whose outstanding performances contributed in shaping the command's achievements in 2024.

Comptroller Olomu said despite the challenges of low trade volume, the command is able to achieve it's target which is a reflection of officers commitment and dedication to duty

He added that in line with the policy  thrust of the CGC, the command utilised it's relationship with stakeholders to achieve it's goal this year. 

According to him improving on stakeholder engagement has become an operational template the Comptroller General of Customs has impressed on the officers and expressed joy to announce that it has proven to be a masterstroke towards enhanced compliance. 

Comptroller Olomu said "Compliance is no doubt the bedrock of all customs achievements in areas of revenue collection, anti smuggling and legitimate trade facilitation. Our approach to regurlarly engage our sister government agencies has raised our degree of intelligence sharing towards a common national interest. 

"Let me use this period to thank the NPA, DSS, NDLEA, NAQS,Port Health, Police, Immigration and other sister government agencies for their consistent collaboration in 2024. They are indeed an integral part of the command's success story in 2024. I urge them to stay on board let's do it again in 2025.

"With our port users, we maintained regularly enlightenment meetings, faster trade dispute resolution mechanism and consistent appraisal of feedbacks to keep improving on our responsibilities. 

"There have been positive fallouts of  our regular interface with our stakeholders. This is evident in our collection of N2..2tr revenue and still counting, zeroing in on the minority that attempt smuggling by curbing their activities with seizures. We are fostering inclusivity and this will continue in 2025

"We have ensured no container , import or export consignment goes through our control without due diligence of proper examination. This has been the foundation of our impeccable enforcement drive. 

"We are honouring some of our officers and stakeholders for their outstanding performances in the year 2024 . I want to urge the awardees to see this as a call for more commitment to surpass their best outputs. There is no end to improvement

"This should also be a challenge to those who didn't make the award list this time, I urge them to keep improving with a promise that their inputs shall not go unnoticed for due recognition" he concluded

Among those recognised with various awards are APM Terminals, Sifax Group, ENL Consortium, Dangote, Talod Ocean Airfreight and Princess Chi Ezeh the CEO of Munah Sylva Nigeria Limited

The command also recognised serving and retired officers for their contributions to it's overall successes in 2024

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