The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reported an impressive revenue generation of N676 billion for the Federal Government between January and August.
During the handover to the newly deployed Customs Area Controller in Lagos, Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba, the Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Auwal Mohammed, emphasized the importance of rededicating oneself to duty. He urged officers of the command to exceed government expectations in terms of revenue collection, preventing smuggling, and facilitating trade.
Mohammed commended the officers for their collective achievements during his tenure, highlighting that teamwork, diligence, and a zero-compromise approach had contributed to numerous revenue and operational successes. He noted that the Apapa command achieved its highest monthly and daily revenue collection in August 2023, with N136 billion collected as monthly revenue and N10 billion on August 3, marking a historic achievement for the Nigeria Customs Service.
Mohammed stressed the importance of preventing smuggling and adhering to import and export prohibition lists, considering the critical role of the port in the economy and national security. He mentioned significant seizures, including a N21.6 billion worth of tramadol and 20 cartons of illicit drugs valued at N1.4 billion, which were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Additionally, officers uncovered and seized two pistols hidden inside a groupage container.
Addressing the use of technology for trade facilitation, Mohammed highlighted the role of the Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II) and the importance of accurate declarations. He noted that scanner deployment had improved port operations, with an average of 120 containers being scanned daily, compared to the previous 50.
Mohammed reminded officers that the NCS played a vital role in the government’s non-oil revenue drive and national economic sustainability. He encouraged exporters to utilize initiatives like the Domestic Export Warehouse (DEW) to streamline cargo access to the port.
The newly appointed Area Controller of Apapa, Jaiyeoba, pledged to maintain an open-door policy, resolving trade disputes promptly, and building on the achievements of his predecessor in revenue generation, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling efforts, and customs-community relations. He expressed gratitude to the Acting Controller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for the opportunity to serve.
