The Oyo/Osun Area Command of Nigeria Customs Service has generated a total of ₦6,335,842,600.28k (Six Billion, Three Hundred and Thirty-Five Million, Eight Hundred and Forty-Two Thousand, Six Hundred Naira); for the month of May 2024.
Addressing newsmen at the headquarters of the command in Ibadan on Thursday, the Area Controller, Dr. Ben Oramalugo stated that cumulatively, when added to the revenue generated for the months of January to April 2024, the sum of ₦30,664,247,939.15k (Thirty Billion, Six Hundred and Sixty-Four Million, Two Hundred and Forty-Seven Thousand, Nine Hundred and Thirty-Nine Naira; Fifteen Kobo) has been generated as revenue for the period of January to May 2024.
According to the controller, this represents a 5.2 % increase, when compared to the sum of ₦29,154,853,722.73k (Twenty-Nine Billion, One Hundred and Fifty-Four Million, Eight Hundred and Fifty-Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and Twenty-Two Naira, Seventy- Three Kobo) generated during the same period of the year 2023.
Oramalugo also announced that the command intercepted 546 wraps and another 33 sacks of Cannabis Sativa worth ₦21,128,260:00k (Twenty-One Million, One Hundred and Twenty-Eight Thousand, Two Hundred and Sixty Naira) and a quantity of Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS) .
He noted that despite the economic headwinds encountered for most parts of the second quarter of 2024, the Command demonstrated much resilience as the increase in generated revenue is a testament to the dedication and efficiency of the officers in ensuring compliance and maximizing revenue collection.
The controller however, pointed out that the command still has a herculean task ahead, as the command’s revenue target is set at ₦141,682,012,396.84 (One Hundred and Forty-One Billion, Six Hundred and Eighty-Two Million, and Twelve Thousand, Three Hundred and Ninety-Six Naira, Eighty-Four Kobo).
With this revenue target, the command is expected to collect N11.8 billion every month and by May ending N59 billion instead of N30.6 billion it collected so far.
The command is far from the target by over N28 billion.
Oramalugo stated that the command achieved the generated revenue amidst the various prevailing economic challenges facing the country.
He explained that in line with the policy thrust of the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) BA Adeniyi MFR and in the spirit of interagency collaboration, the Command has received approval to hand over the to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Oyo State Command the Cannabis Sativa intercepted and got approval to auction the seized Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS) listed as part of the seizures to the public due to its inflammable nature.
He expressed the Command’s profound gratitude to the Comptroller General and his Management Team for the support that they have continually extended to the Command, to ensure the core mandates of the Service are achieved within Oyo and Osun States.
He noted that efforts to educate various stakeholders within the Command’s Area of Responsibility (AoR) on the importance of adhering to customs regulations have paid off.
“We have seen a significant reduction in under-declarations, contributing to the overall increase in revenue,” he said.
The controller asserted that the introduction of advanced technology solutions, such as the Nigeria Customs Service Modernization Project, has streamlined processes and enhanced transparency, further boosting revenue collection capabilities.
He maintained that in tandem with its revenue generation efforts, the Oyo/Osun Area Command has maintained a robust stance against smuggling activities within its jurisdiction. According to him, despite the economic hardships that often exacerbate smuggling tendencies, command officers have remained vigilant and proactive in intercepting illicit goods and apprehending perpetrators.
He disclosed that the months of April, May and some parts of June, witnessed numerous successful operations resulting in the seizure of contraband items.
Comptroller Oramalugo reassured all stakeholders within the Command’s Area of Responsibility (AoR), that Customs recognize the grave implications of smuggling on national security, economic stability, public health and will remain resolute in its determination to combat this menace. “Through collaboration with relevant stakeholders, intelligence-driven operations coupled with enhanced surveillance along our borders and the deployment of advanced technology, we will continue to demonstrate exemplary professionalism, to ensure a safer and more prosperous future for all Nigerians,” he declared.
He extended his appreciation to the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE, sister security agencies and other stakeholders for their continued support and collaboration.
“Together, we will build on our successes and overcome the challenges ahead as we strive to fulfill our mandate under the Nigeria Customs Service Act. I will also like to commend the unwavering dedication and tireless efforts of the Officers and Men of the Oyo/Osun Area Command in achieving commendable results during the period under review in the year 2024. “Their commitment to duty and professionalism amidst challenging circumstances is truly commendable. As we navigate the complexities of the current economic landscape, all stakeholders can be rest assured that the Oyo/Osun Area Command remains steadfast in its commitment to fulfilling its mandate under the Nigeria Customs Service Act. We will continue to adapt and innovate, ensuring that our operations remain effective in the face of evolving challenges,” he stated.