The Murtala Muhammed Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a significant revenue increase from January to October 2024, generating ₦144.2 billion from customs duties and other charges. This marks a 94% growth compared to ₦74.3 billion collected in the same period in 2023, reflecting a revenue surge of ₦69.9 billion.
Comptroller Michael Toyin Awe, the Customs Area Controller, disclosed this during an update on the command’s activities, attributing the growth to enhanced trade facilitation, stakeholder compliance, and efficient resource deployment.
In addition to revenue achievements, the command intensified its fight against smuggling, recording seizures valued at ₦3.32 billion in Duty Paid Value (DPV) between July and October 2024. Items seized included:
– 23 pieces of walkie-talkies
– 175 military helmets
– 50 drones
– 10 packs of Canadian cannabis sativa
– 250 live turtles
– 7 packages of Tramadol Hydrochloride (200mg & 225mg)
– 1.5kg of pangolin scales
– 0.2kg of porcupine pins
These items contravened provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
Comptroller Awe highlighted the command’s strategic measures, including enhanced cargo clearance, improved intelligence gathering, and inter-agency collaboration, as instrumental in achieving these results. To sustain the momentum, the command plans to implement more trade facilitation measures, strengthen anti-smuggling efforts, and leverage technology for seamless operations.
He expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his support, and commended the officers of the command for their dedication. Awe also recognized stakeholders, including importers, exporters, and clearing agents, for their cooperation and compliance with customs regulations.
Acknowledging the media’s role, Comptroller Awe praised their contributions in ensuring timely dissemination of customs activities to the public, fostering transparency and accountability.
The command remains committed to boosting legitimate trade, curbing smuggling, and maintaining efficient operations in alignment with national economic goals.