The Kebbi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has embarked on a vigorous campaign to enhance revenue generation, facilitate legitimate trade, and combat smuggling activities within its jurisdiction. Comptroller Chidi Chukwumeziri Nwokorie, the Area Controller, has articulated a clear vision for the command, emphasizing a dual approach of strict enforcement of customs regulations and fostering an environment conducive to legal trade practices. This multifaceted strategy seeks to bolster the nation’s economic stability while simultaneously safeguarding its borders from illicit activities.
Despite the prevailing challenges posed by border closures and the broader economic climate, the Kebbi Command has demonstrated remarkable success in its initial six weeks under Comptroller Nwokorie’s leadership. The command recorded a significant revenue generation of N13,378,002, highlighting its effectiveness in collecting due customs duties and levies. This achievement underscores the command’s commitment to maximizing revenue streams for the government, even in the face of economic headwinds. Furthermore, it demonstrates the potential for revenue growth through efficient customs operations and robust enforcement.
The command’s anti-smuggling operations have also yielded substantial results, leading to the interception of contraband goods with an estimated value of N84.2 million. The seized items paint a picture of the diverse range of illicit goods targeted by smugglers. They include 145 bales of second-hand clothing, 13,750 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and 114 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each), demonstrating attempts to circumvent import regulations and potentially undercut local industries. Further seizures comprised 70 expired cartons of Biggy Vanilla Wafer Biscuit and 40 bags of foreign sugar (50kg each), revealing a disregard for public health and safety.
Comptroller Nwokorie recognizes the crucial role of interagency collaboration in achieving the command’s objectives. He has actively engaged with sister agencies, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), National Security Adviser (NSA), and the Nigerian Army, to foster a unified front against smuggling and other border-related crimes. This collaborative approach facilitates intelligence sharing, strengthens operational coordination, and enhances the overall effectiveness of border security measures.
The engagement extends beyond government agencies to encompass the broader community. Comptroller Nwokorie has prioritized building relationships with border communities, traders, and other stakeholders to improve information gathering and promote compliance with customs regulations. This proactive engagement strategy recognizes the importance of local knowledge and cooperation in effectively combating smuggling. It also aims to foster a sense of shared responsibility for border security and encourage voluntary compliance with the law.
Comptroller Nwokorie has underscored his commitment to implementing the trade facilitation initiatives introduced by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi. These initiatives aim to streamline customs procedures, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and promote legitimate trade activities. He has also reassured residents of the Kebbi area that the command will continue to provide support within the confines of the law, ensuring that legitimate businesses can thrive while simultaneously upholding national security interests. This commitment to balanced enforcement demonstrates the command’s understanding of the delicate interplay between security and economic prosperity. Comptroller Nwokorie’s firm declaration, “This is my mission and my bond. I will not fail the NCS, and I will not fail the nation,” encapsulates his dedication to fulfilling his responsibilities and contributing to the overall success of the Nigeria Customs Service and the nation as a whole. His leadership approach emphasizes collaboration, community engagement, and a firm stance against illicit activities, promising a more secure and prosperous future for the Kebbi area.
