Reps commend Nigeria Customs over revenue, surge, security efforts (Pictures)
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) received commendation from the House Committee on Customs and Excise for its increase in revenue generation and contributions to national security.
The commendation came on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, during an oversight visit to the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters in Abuja. Hon. Leke Abejide, Chairman of the House Committee on Customs and Excise, praised the NCS for its outstanding revenue generation, trade facilitation, and recent achievements in seizing arms and ammunition at a Bonded Terminal in Onne Port, Rivers State.
He also lauded a similar seizure at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos State, highlighting the vigilance and effectiveness of Customs officers.
Hon. Abejide emphasized that these seizures have potentially saved countless lives and urged the NCS officers to remain vigilant. “Every weapon and illicit item seized is a victory, but every attempt to smuggle them into Nigeria is a call to redouble our efforts,” he said. He also announced plans to scrutinize Bonded Terminals and Free Trade Zones to eradicate illegal activities.
In response, Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi expressed gratitude for the commendation and underscored the importance of legislative oversight in ensuring the efficiency and transparency of NCS operations. He assured that the NCS remains committed to legislative compliance and implementing directives to improve efficiency and uphold integrity.
Deputy Comptroller-General Caroline Niagwan reported that the NCS generated 2.742 trillion naira in the first half of 2024, surpassing the revenue target. This achievement, she noted, was due to teamwork and measures to block revenue leakages. Deputy Comptroller-General Bello Jibo highlighted significant seizures of petroleum products and ongoing collaborations with the NNPC and other agencies to enhance security.
Assistant Comptroller-General Kikelomo Adeola discussed advancements in trade facilitation, including the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programs and the development of an e-auction application. She emphasized ongoing capacity-building programs to support these initiatives.
See pictures below:
