Nigeria Customs Service Oyo/Osun Area Command Achieves Milestone Revenue and Anti-Smuggling Success

Nigeria Customs Service Oyo/Osun Area Command Achieves Milestone Revenue and Anti-Smuggling Success

*Ibadan, June 13, 2024* – The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Oyo/Osun Area Command, under the leadership of Customs Area Controller Dr. Ben Oramalugo, PhD, FCIA, FNIM, has achieved significant milestones in revenue generation and anti-smuggling activities. Speaking at a media press briefing at the Command's Operational Headquarters in Ibadan, Dr. Oramalugo highlighted the Command's performance from April 17, 2024, to June 13, 2024.

**Revenue Generation Success**

Despite economic challenges, the Oyo/Osun Area Command generated ₦6,335,842,600.28 in May 2024. Cumulatively, from January to May 2024, the Command collected ₦30,664,247,939.15, marking a 5.2% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This increase underscores the dedication and efficiency of the Command's officers in maximizing revenue collection.

Dr. Oramalugo attributed this success to improved compliance among stakeholders and the integration of advanced technology through the Nigeria Customs Service Modernization Project, which streamlined processes and enhanced transparency.

**Anti-Smuggling Achievements**

In addition to revenue generation, the Command has maintained a robust stance against smuggling. From April 17 to June 13, 2024, the Command made several significant seizures, including:

- 504 wraps of Cannabis Sativa (391.9kg) worth ₦15,814,600

- 600 bags of foreign parboiled rice worth ₦50,280,000

- 274 kegs of Petroleum Motor Spirit (6,850 liters) worth ₦5,521,500

- 123 pieces of used tires worth ₦15,648,000

- A used Mercedes truck worth ₦30,000,000

- A used Nissan Caravan worth ₦12,590,000

The total duty-paid value of these seizures is ₦129,854,100. Notably, the Command received approval to hand over seized Cannabis Sativa worth ₦21,128,260 to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Oyo State Command and to auction seized Petroleum Motor Spirit due to its inflammable nature.

**Commitment to National Security and Economic Stability**

Dr. Oramalugo reiterated the Command's commitment to combating smuggling, emphasizing the adverse effects on national security, economic stability, and public health. Through intelligence-driven operations, enhanced surveillance, and advanced technology deployment, the Command aims to maintain exemplary professionalism and ensure a safer, more prosperous Nigeria.

**Appreciation and Future Outlook**

Dr. Oramalugo expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) BA Adeniyi MFR fnipr psc (+) and his management team for their continued support. He also thanked the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE, sister security agencies, and other stakeholders for their collaboration.

Commending the dedication of the Command's officers, Dr. Oramalugo assured stakeholders of the Command's unwavering commitment to its mandate under the Nigeria Customs Service Act. He emphasized the need for continued adaptation and innovation to overcome future challenges.

Dr. Ben Oramalugo, PhD, FCIA, FNIM

Customs Area Controller, Oyo/Osun Area Command

Nigeria Customs Service