In a notable achievement, the Oyo/Osun Area Command, led by Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, has reported an impressive revenue collection of ₦11.7 billion.
The success, spanning September to October 2023, showcases the command’s commitment to trade facilitation and the suppression of smuggling. Comptroller Oramalugo attributes this milestone to strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts with sister agencies.
The Customs Area Controller for Oyo/Osun Area Command, Comptroller Ben Oramalugo during a press briefing on Friday showcased the achievements of the command since his assumption of duty on September 18, 2023.
During the briefing, Comptroller Oramalugo highlighted the significant contributions of the Oyo/Osun Area Command to the Federal Government’s revenue. For the period spanning September to October 2023, the command contributed an impressive ₦11,679,732,583.91k. Cumulatively, from January to August 2023, the command collected ₦59,087,983,670.64k, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to fostering economic growth in the nation.
This notable revenue generation was attributed to the command’s rigorous enforcement measures, strategic initiatives, and unwavering dedication to the suppression of smuggling within its Area of Responsibility. Comptroller Oramalugo expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, CGC BA Adeniyi MFR dsm fnipr psc (+), for providing operational vehicles and support that enhanced the command’s capabilities in achieving these revenue milestones.
The revenue success was achieved through a prioritization of trade facilitation, strict enforcement of extant laws, and the implementation of measures aimed at simplifying customs processes. These initiatives aimed to reduce bureaucracy within the system, promote legitimate trade, and create a conducive business environment for Excise traders operating within the command’s Area of Responsibility.
In addition to revenue generation, Comptroller Oramalugo emphasized the importance of collaboration and inter-agency cooperation. The command fostered strong partnerships with relevant federal government agencies, trade associations, and the general public, ensuring a harmonized approach to customs operations.
As a result of effective collaboration, the command successfully intercepted Sixty-Four (64) sacks and One Hundred and Fifty (150) compressed Cannabis Sativa (Indian hemp) weighing 777.5kg. This illegal substance was promptly handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Friday, November 10, 2023.
Comptroller Oramalugo concluded the press briefing by issuing a stern warning to individuals with nefarious intentions aimed at sabotaging the economic development of Nigeria. The command pledged to deploy all available resources, in accordance with extant laws as enshrined in the new Nigeria Customs Service Act of 2023, to bring economic saboteurs to justice.
The success showcased during the press briefing was made possible through timely sharing of credible intelligence and effective collaboration and synergy between all units of the Nigeria Customs Service resident between Oyo and Osun States. The command acknowledged the collaborative efforts of sister agencies such as the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Police Force, Department of State Security, NDLEA, and Oyo State Operation Burst.
Comptroller Oramalugo extended appreciation to various traditional rulers, community leaders, and the governments of Oyo and Osun States for their continued support in providing an enabling environment for the command’s officers and men to perform their statutory functions.
Comptroller Oramalugo solicited the assistance of well-meaning Nigerians and members of the general public to provide useful information that could be used to apprehend economic saboteurs within their environment. This, he stated, would not only improve the command’s service delivery but also contribute to safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests.