Nigeria Customs Service Area 2 Command, Onne, Portharcourt Achieves Major Seizure and Revenue Milestone

Nigeria Customs Service Area 2 Command, Onne, Portharcourt Achieves Major Seizure and Revenue Milestone

Onne, Nigeria – In a press briefing held on Thursday, July 25, 2024, Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, the Customs Area Controller for the Nigeria Customs Service Area 2 Command, Onne, shared significant developments in the Command's operations.

Highlighting the Command's efforts to enhance border security and public safety, Comptroller Babandede noted that despite prior warnings from the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, some individuals continue to undermine importation processes. He expressed concern over the persistent activities of these saboteurs but reassured the public of the Command's commitment to safeguarding the nation.

The Comptroller announced a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal importation, with the recent seizure of seven 40-foot containers. Acting on credible intelligence and in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Onne Port Chapter, the containers were intercepted and examined. The contents included:

- 1,054,400 bottles of different cough syrup containing codeine (100ml)

- 9,100 pieces of chili cutters

- 2,175,000 tablets of Hyergra (200mg)

- 1,300,000 tablets of Really Extra Diclofenac Pain Relief (50mg)

The total value of these seized items is estimated at ₦11.2 billion. Comptroller Babandede emphasized the continued vigilance of the Nigeria Customs Service in protecting the economy and public health, noting that the seized pharmaceuticals would be handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation.

In addition to enforcement activities, the Area 2 Command has also achieved impressive revenue generation. For the first half of the year, the Command collected ₦312.09 billion, representing 50.5% of the annual target. For July alone, the Command has already generated ₦48.06 billion, with several days remaining in the month.

Comptroller Babandede reaffirmed the Command's dedication to increasing revenue while ensuring the safety and well-being of the public. He thanked the media for their attention and support.

M. Babandede

Customs Area Controller

Area 2 Command