The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Oyo/Osun Area Command, recorded a remarkable revenue performance in 2024, collecting a total of N82.1 billion. This figure represents the highest revenue collection in the command’s history, exceeding all previous years’ totals. Dr. Ben Oramalaugo, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), attributed this achievement to the diligent efforts of the command’s officers and men, coupled with enhanced collaboration with stakeholders, strategic enforcement measures, and improved compliance levels among traders. Despite facing challenging economic conditions, the command surpassed its revenue target, demonstrating the effectiveness of its strategies and the commitment of its personnel. The N82.1 billion collection underscores the command’s significant contribution to national revenue generation and its role in facilitating legitimate trade within its jurisdiction.
Further highlighting the command’s impressive performance, Oramalaugo announced that in January 2025 alone, the command generated N7.8 billion in revenue. This represents a substantial increase compared to the same period in both 2023 and 2024, with growth rates of 10.1% and 14.3%, respectively. The CAC attributed this positive trend to the successful implementation of strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing compliance and streamlining customs procedures. These initiatives included leveraging technology, such as the Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS), and proactively addressing the concerns of legitimate traders. By simplifying processes, reducing delays, and improving efficiency, the command facilitated smoother trade flows while ensuring the proper collection of duties.
In addition to its revenue achievements, the Oyo/Osun Command demonstrated a strong commitment to combating smuggling activities. Throughout 2024, the command intensified its anti-smuggling operations, resulting in a significant increase in interceptions and seizures of contraband goods. The total duty paid value of seized items reached N5.3 billion in 2024, marking a substantial 1,091% increase compared to the N451 million worth of goods seized in 2023. This achievement underscores the command’s effectiveness in disrupting smuggling networks and protecting the nation’s economy from illicit trade. The intensified efforts reflect the command’s unwavering dedication to upholding trade regulations and safeguarding local industries from unfair competition.
Between December 20, 2024, and January 31, 2025, the command further intensified its anti-smuggling operations, resulting in the seizure of contraband goods worth N202 million. The intercepted items included 170 bags of foreign parboiled rice valued at N14.9 million, 1,667 pieces of used tires worth N160 million, 32 bales of used clothes valued at N23 million, and 40 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) worth N792,000, among other items. These seizures demonstrate the command’s continued vigilance in combating smuggling and its commitment to protecting local industries and consumers from the influx of illicit goods. The variety of seized items highlights the diverse nature of smuggling activities and the command’s comprehensive approach to tackling this challenge.
The Oyo/Osun Command’s accomplishments reflect its dedication to fulfilling its dual mandate of revenue generation and anti-smuggling enforcement. The command’s strategic initiatives, coupled with the dedication of its personnel, have resulted in record-breaking revenue collection and a significant increase in the interception of smuggled goods. These achievements not only contribute to national economic growth but also protect local industries and consumers from the harmful effects of illicit trade. By effectively implementing its strategies and collaborating with stakeholders, the Oyo/Osun Command has positioned itself as a key player in Nigeria’s customs operations.
The success of the Oyo/Osun Command serves as a model for other customs commands across the country. By prioritizing efficiency, transparency, and collaboration, customs authorities can achieve significant improvements in revenue collection and anti-smuggling efforts. This, in turn, will contribute to the overall economic development of Nigeria and enhance the well-being of its citizens. The command’s achievements underscore the importance of investing in technology, training personnel, and fostering strong partnerships with stakeholders in the trade community. By replicating the strategies and dedication demonstrated by the Oyo/Osun Command, other customs formations can significantly contribute to the nation’s economic prosperity and security.
