The Nigeria Customs Service, Area 2 Command in Onne, has announce recording a revenue generation of 50.4% of its initial annual target of ₦494 billion, generating ₦249.75 billion as of the end of May 2024.
This figure also represents 40.3% of the revised target of ₦618 billion, an impressive feat given the numerous challenges faced in recent months, including the NLC strike and public holidays.
“We look forward to continuous rise in revenue generation in the coming months and we are optimistic that we would surpass the annual target by the end of the year,” said the Customs Area Controller, Mohammed Babandede during a press briefing on June 21, 2024.
According to the Controller’s delivery, anti-smuggling operations have yielded good results, with the seizure of six containers for various violations of customs laws. These containers, which include items such as clothing, electronics, and pharmaceuticals, have a total Duty Paid Value of ₦3.19 billion.
The seized goods, which include hazardous e-waste, will be disposed of in cooperation with the National Environmental Standards and Regulation Enforcement Agency (NESREA).
Comptroller Babandede highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration, noting, “Seizures of this magnitude could not have been possible without their involvement.”
Babandede emphasized the Command’s dedication to trade facilitation and maintaining strict compliance with customs procedures.
He addressed misconceptions about the handling of containers in bonded terminals, clarifying that the final destination of consignments is determined by the importer and cannot be altered by customs officers.
“This negates the erroneous belief that Onne officers connive with operators of Bonded Terminals to transfer containers,” he stated. The Command continues to rely on intelligence and collaboration with stakeholders to enhance its operations and ensure compliance with trade laws.
By Ruth Sekyi – Public Sector Global
