Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, Ph.D., the Customs Area Controller of Apapa Port Command under the auspices of the Nigeria Customs Service has announced a revenue collection of over N1.023 trillion for the first half of 2024.
This marks a 143% increase from the N421 billion collected during the same period in 2023.
The announcement was made during the mid-year press briefing held on Monday, July 8, 2024.
This achievement, despite a noted decrease in trade volume, underscores the effectiveness of enhanced revenue collection strategies and robust intelligence gathering since Olomu assumed office on May 6, 2024.
In his address, Olomu highlighted the implementation of a non-intrusive inspection regime, utilizing advanced scanners and selective physical examinations to ensure thorough cargo assessments.
He also emphasized the Command’s commitment to trade facilitation and the prevention of revenue losses.
A revenue recovery committee was established to identify and seal leakages, particularly in bonded terminals, further bolstering the Command’s revenue-generating capabilities.
These achievements according to the command was done in collaborative efforts with sister government agencies and private sector stakeholders.
Olomu reported the seizure of 11 containers containing prohibited items such as expired pharmaceuticals, used clothing, and unregistered products, with a Duty Paid Value of N424 million.
This is in contrast to the 42 seizures worth N1.4 billion recorded in the same period last year.
Olomu reiterated the Command’s zero-tolerance policy towards smuggling and emphasized continued vigilance and cooperation with other agencies to sustain these efforts.
By Ruth Sekyi – Public Sector Global
