The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has made significant strides to curb smuggling and boost revenue collection. Between April and June 2024, the command seized contraband goods worth a duty-paid value (DPV) of N770,666,237 and generated N92,369,227 in revenue. This marks a remarkable 52.46% increase compared to the N53,983,622 recorded during the same period in 2023. Additionally, the command surpassed its monthly revenue target for June 2024 by 77.86%, a noteworthy achievement that underscores the effectiveness of its operations.
Comptroller James Ojo
Significant Contraband
Seizures
During
the three-month period, the Ogun I Area Command successfully intercepted a wide
range of contraband items, highlighting the agency’s relentless fight against
smuggling. The seized items included:
- 219
sacks and 1,725 parcels of cannabis sativa.
- 940
rounds of live ammunition.
- 44,466
litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
- 2,227
pieces of pneumatic foreign-used tyres.
- 64 bales
and 222 sacks of used clothes.
- 2,947
cartons of frozen poultry products.
- 7,015
bags of foreign parboiled rice.
- 21
units of vehicles.
- 3
units of motorcycles.
- 115
pairs of used shoes.
The
Controller of the command, Comptroller James Ojo, disclosed these details
during a briefing held in Abeokuta on Monday. He emphasized that these seizures
were not just about the numbers but represented the agency’s unwavering
determination to protect the local economy, ensure public health and safety,
and uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s borders.
Economic and Public
Health Implications
Comptroller
Ojo elaborated on the broader implications of these contraband items on the
economy and public health. He noted that cannabis sativa, commonly known as
marijuana or Indian hemp, is a psychoactive drug with devastating effects on
consumers, particularly the youth. The rise in its abuse poses a significant
threat to national security, as it is often linked to various criminal
activities, including armed robbery, banditry, cultism, kidnapping, and
terrorism.
The
interception of 940 rounds of live ammunition also highlights the ongoing
efforts to curb violent crimes and ensure public safety. Similarly, the seizure
of 44,466 liters of PMS addresses the issue of fuel smuggling, which has
economic implications, including the distortion of the local fuel market and
loss of government revenue.
Ojo
also addressed the dangers posed by pneumatic foreign-used tyres, commonly
called “Tokunbo” tyres. These expired tyres present a significant risk
to motorists, as they are prone to bursting and causing accidents. The seizure
of such items underscores the NCS’s commitment to ensuring road safety and
protecting the lives of Nigerian motorists.
Health Risks from
Smuggled Poultry
One
of the notable interceptions was the seizure of 2,947 cartons of frozen poultry
products. Comptroller Ojo explained that smuggled poultry often lacks proper
regulatory oversight, increasing the risk of harmful chemicals being used for
preservation. These chemicals, such as formaldehyde, can be toxic if ingested
and potentially cause acute and chronic health issues, including poisoning,
cancer, and organ damage. By preventing these products from reaching the
market, the NCS is safeguarding public health and ensuring that consumers are
not exposed to dangerous substances.
Achievements and
Efforts of the Command
The
remarkable achievements of the Ogun I Area Command over the past three months
can be attributed to the diligence, commitment, and professionalism of its officers
and men. Comptroller Ojo praised his team for their tireless efforts and
effective use of intelligence in line with the policy thrust of the Comptroller
General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi. This policy aims to crush all forms of
economic sabotage and ensure the protection of Nigeria’s economic interests.
Ojo
also acknowledged the vital support and cooperation of traditional rulers and
other security agencies in the state. Their collaboration has been instrumental
in the successful anti-smuggling campaigns carried out by the command. He
expressed his gratitude for their continued support and urged them to maintain
their commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders.
Looking Ahead:
Continued Vigilance and Support
Comptroller
Ojo called for sustained support from all stakeholders, including the media, to
preserve the integrity of Nigeria’s borders. He emphasized the importance of
collective efforts in the fight against smuggling and economic sabotage. Ojo
urged those engaged in smuggling activities to reconsider their actions,
warning that they would face the full force of the law if they continued to
undermine the country’s economic well-being.
“Through
our concerted efforts and strategic operations, the Ogun I Area Command has
generated an impressive revenue of N92,369,227.00 for the second quarter of
2024,” Ojo stated. He reiterated the importance of these efforts not only in revenue generation but also in protecting the local economy and
ensuring public safety.
The
achievements of the Ogun I Area Command in the past three months demonstrate
the effectiveness of strategic operations and the importance of vigilance in
border control. The significant increase in revenue and the successful
interception of various contraband items highlight the ongoing commitment of
the Nigeria Customs Service to its mandate. By prioritizing public health,
safety, and economic integrity, the NCS is playing a crucial role in fostering
a more secure and prosperous Nigeria.
Conclusion
The Nigeria Customs Service’s Ogun I
Area Command has made significant strides in its anti-smuggling efforts, as
evidenced by the substantial seizures and impressive revenue generation
reported for the second quarter of 2024. These achievements underscore the
importance of strategic operations, effective intelligence, and strong
collaboration with traditional rulers and security agencies. Comptroller James
Ojo’s leadership and the dedication of his officers have been pivotal in these
successes. Moving forward, continued vigilance and support from all
stakeholders will be essential in maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s
borders and ensuring the country’s economic and public health security.
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