The Nigeria Customs Service, specifically the Port Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command, has reported a substantial revenue collection of N239 billion for the period from January to September 2023. This figure represents a notable increase of 29 percent, or N53 billion, compared to the N185 billion collected during the same timeframe in 2022. This surge highlights an effective implementation of strategies aimed at enhancing revenue collection, ensuring compliance with regulations, and promoting trade facilitation.
Customs Area Controller Tenny Daniyan underscored the command’s commitment to maintaining stringent oversight as he reported significant seizures amounting to N28 million during the review period. Among these, the command intercepted arms and ammunition, including several pistols and a substantial amount of ammunition, all of which were cleverly concealed within imported vehicles. This enforcement action demonstrates the command’s proactive stance against illegal importation and the associated risks it poses to national security.
Several notable seizures were documented, including a 40-foot container with registration number ACLU9664782. This container was found to carry an array of used goods, including 2,598 tires, fridges, carpets, mattresses, clothing, and used footwear, with a duty-paid value of N8.1 million. Another container, ACLU9810594, contained contraband items such as foreign parboiled rice and vegetable oil with a duty-paid value of N6.5 million. These interceptions not only prevent potential health risks associated with unregulated imports but also protect local industries impacted by such goods.
The specifics of the ammunition recovered were alarming, with Daniyan detailing various rounds of live and blank ammunition found in different vehicles, including a used Mazda CX5 and a Toyota Tacoma. A notable example includes the recovery of 50 rounds of 76mm live cartridges from a used Toyota Tacoma valued at N6.98 million and a made-in-China pistol from a Toyota Sienna. Such findings underscore the need for ongoing vigilance in monitoring the importation of firearms and ammunition, which pose serious public safety concerns.
The command has also detained three suspects related to these seizures, who have since been granted administrative bail. The arms and ammunition are currently under investigation and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities as required. Daniyan made it clear that these enforcement actions reflect the command’s zero tolerance for contraband items, stressing the importance of legal compliance among importers and stakeholders at the PTML.
Amidst these enforcement operations, the PTML Command continues to emphasize trade facilitation and enhancing the ease of doing business at the port. With a remarkable clearance time of just two hours for compliant roll-on-roll-off cargoes, the command has successfully balanced revenue generation with the need for efficient trade processes. Additionally, a strengthened dispute resolution committee has been established, contributing significantly to resolving trade disputes that arose over the nine-month period. Overall, the achievements of the PTML Customs Command reflect a committed focus on national security, regulatory compliance, and improved operational efficiency.
