The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Apapa Area Command has reported a remarkable feat in revenue collection, having generated a total of N1.87 trillion from January to October 2024. The announcement was made by Babatunde Olomu, the Customs Area Controller for the command, emphasizing that this revenue performance is particularly significant given the ongoing decline in trade volume. The highlighted figure represents an impressive 101 percent increase compared to the N931 billion collected during the same period in 2023, illustrating a robust financial trend for the command despite fluctuations in trade activity.
In October 2024 alone, the command achieved a revenue collection of N264 billion, marking it as the highest monthly collection in the command’s history. Such consistent growth underscores the NCS’s effective measures in enhancing revenue collection practices and addressing trade challenges. Olomu expressed optimism that the command would not only meet its projected revenue target of N2.2 trillion for the year but also exceed it significantly, indicating solid fiscal management and strategic planning within the customs authority.
Throughout the year, the Apapa Area Command has also been proactive in addressing smuggling and contraband issues, having conducted over 36 seizures of various illegal goods. These seizures, with a combined estimated value of over N1.5 billion, include items such as used clothing, frozen poultry, tramadol, and unregistered pharmaceutical products. Olomu revealed that the command has been diligent in blocking revenue leakages and maximizing collections, as demonstrated by their monthly activities and enforcement actions.
Additionally, Olomu highlighted the command’s commitment to public health and safety by addressing the concerns surrounding hazardous imports. He mentioned the handover of six containers containing falsely declared and expired pharmaceutical products to relevant government agencies, including the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). He noted that such measures are critical in preventing potentially dangerous substances from reaching the Nigerian market, thereby protecting the wellbeing of the population.
The collaboration between the NCS and its partner agencies exemplifies the effectiveness of inter-agency efforts in tackling illegal importation and enforcing compliance with trade regulations. By working closely with NAFDAC and NDLEA, the Apapa Customs Command demonstrates its capacity to safeguard public health and uphold the integrity of the import process, underscoring the importance of teamwork among government entities in combating illicit activities.
In conclusion, the achievements of the Nigeria Customs Service Apapa Area Command in revenue collection and law enforcement are commendable, especially in light of the challenging trade environment. With an optimistic outlook towards surpassing its revenue targets, the command not only highlights its financial accomplishments but also emphasizes its crucial role in maintaining border security and public safety through rigorous enforcement of trade regulations. The proactive steps taken in revenue collection and combating illicit goods demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the integrity of customs operations while advancing Nigeria’s economic goals.
