Oyo/Osun Customs Area Command Records Milestone Achievements in Revenue Collection and Anti-Smuggling Efforts

Oyo/Osun Customs Area Command Records Milestone Achievements in Revenue Collection and Anti-Smuggling Efforts 

Ibadan, Nigeria – October 30, 2024*

In a press briefing held at the operational headquarters of the Nigeria Customs Service, Oyo/Osun Area Command in Ibadan, Dr. Ben Oramalugo, Customs Area Controller, announced significant strides in revenue collection and anti-smuggling operations over recent months. Addressing the media, Dr. Oramalugo highlighted the Command's achievements amidst prevailing economic challenges, emphasizing their critical role in national stability through consistent revenue generation and anti-smuggling measures.

Remarkable Revenue Generation

Dr. Oramalugo announced that the Command successfully generated ₦23.97 billion in revenue for the third quarter of 2024, marking a 27.5% increase compared to ₦17.38 billion in the same period of 2023. He noted that between January and September 2024, the Command generated ₦56.66 billion, a 7.85% increase from the corresponding period last year. 

The Customs Area Controller attributed this success to streamlined procedures and enhanced use of technology, particularly the NICIS II system, which has improved transparency and compliance. The Command has also intensified checks on excise duties, ensuring legitimate production activities and thorough documentation to avoid revenue leakages. These efforts underscore the dedication of Customs officers to support economic recovery by maximizing revenue collection.

**Vigorous Anti-Smuggling Operations**

In addition to revenue collection, the Oyo/Osun Area Command has stepped up its anti-smuggling operations. Dr. Oramalugo disclosed that from August 30 to October 29, 2024, Command officers successfully intercepted and seized various contraband goods worth ₦755.9 million in Duty Paid Value (DPV). Key seizures included:

- **Foreign Parboiled Rice:** 433 bags valued at ₦41.57 million.

- **Second-Hand Clothing:** 61 bales and 10 sacks valued at ₦54.6 million.

- **Used Tyres:** 93 pieces valued at ₦8.93 million.

- **Cannabis Sativa:** 744.9 kg valued at ₦46.94 million.

- **Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS):** 8,850 liters valued at ₦7 million.

- **Fake Pharmaceuticals:** Various counterfeit drugs with a combined value of ₦596.86 million.

The Controller highlighted the Command’s strategy of intelligence-driven operations, bolstered by collaboration with local communities. With strengthened informant networks, the Command has disrupted numerous smuggling attempts, promoting safer trade routes. Dr. Oramalugo also stressed the importance of public collaboration, as awareness programs have helped local communities understand the impact of smuggling on the economy and encouraged cooperation with Customs.

**Continued Commitment to National Security and Economic Growth**

Dr. Oramalugo reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to supporting legitimate trade, ensuring the security of Nigeria’s borders, and maintaining a steady trajectory in revenue growth. He commended the Comptroller General of Customs, BA Adeniyi, for his continued support and expressed gratitude to stakeholders, including Governor Seyi Makinde, local traditional leaders, sister security agencies, and the Customs Command officers, for their tireless dedication.

Dr. Oramalugo further announced that the Command would be handing over seized fake pharmaceuticals, valued at ₦596.86 million, to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and 49 sacks of cannabis, valued at ₦46.94 million, to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

He concluded by urging the public to support the Customs’ mission by providing timely information on smuggling activities, stressing that collective efforts are essential to maintaining border security, boosting revenue, and fostering economic development.