The Customs Area Controller, Seme Area Command, Comptroller Ben Oramalugo Ph.D, has call on Nigerians to patronize locally produced goods for the growth of local industries.
Oramalugo spoke as a distinguished speaker at the 5th session of the Redeemer’s University International Model United Nations Conference (RUIMUN) from 3rd to 6th March 2025.
The theme of the conference is “Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations.
According to a press statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of Seme Command, CSC I. Sulaiman, the controller stressed the need to support local industries, citing Nigeria’s status as a leading rice producer but yet facing challenges in local patronage.
His words: “When we fail to buy local rice, we kill our factories.”
He also warned on the dangers of smuggled fake drugs, second hand clothing, used tyres and other un-customs goods which pose severe health and safety risks.
He used the forum to highlight the critical role of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in national development, emphasizing trade facilitation, revenue generation, Anti-smuggling activities and National security.
Oramalugo spoke passionately about the importance of integrity, patriotism, and the detrimental effects of smuggling on the economy and society.
He outlined three core mandates of the Nigeria Customs as:
* Trade Facilitation: Simplifying customs processes to enhance legitimate trade and economic growth.
* Revenue Generation: Contributing significantly to national revenue, with the NCS generating over ₦6 trillion last year; and
* Anti-smuggling and National Security: Preventing the entry of prohibited and harmful goods while collaborating with other agencies to safeguard the nation.
Referencing the Arusha Declaration and other international conventions, he emphasized their roles in enhancing customs integrity, harmonizing procedures, and combating illicit activities.
During an interview at the event, Oramalugo praised the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, describing him as “the best CGC in Africa.”
He commended the CGC’s numerous achievements and recognition, including “Outstanding Revenue Collection” Award by the Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the recent Sun Newspaper’s “Best Public Servant of the Year” award.
The controller expressed his gratitude to Redeemer’s University for the opportunity to engage with young leaders and enlighten them on the vital contributions of the Nigeria Customs Service to national progress.