By Ola ‘Kiya, Reporting
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it has generated N2, 240, 880, 308, 195.77 and seized 5, 096 contrabands worth N13, 796, 646, 685.60 in 2021.
This was disclosed on Thursday by Compt. Joseph O. Attah, Public Relations Officer in a statement issued on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs and made available to journalists in Abuja.
Attah said the amount generated was beyond the target of N1, 678, 715, 016, 014.00 set for the year in view and well over N1,562, 115, 419, 216.32 generated in 2020, which represents 43.45 per cent increase.
Do You Live in Nigeria, FG Says You’ll Pay More For Soft Drinks, Other Beverages
According to the statement, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Col, Hameed Ibrahim Ali (retd), described the fear as a “result of resolute pursuit of what is right and willingness to adapt to changes brought about by global health challenges occasioned by Covid-19.”
He added that the service revenue generation profile has continued to rise annually due to ongoing reforms which include:
I’m Aware You Are Suffering, But Go Back To Farm – Buhari Tells Nigerians
“Strategic deployment of officers strictly using the standard operating procedure.
“Strict enforcement of extant guidelines by the tariff and trade department.
“Automation of the Customs process thereby eliminating vices associated with the manual process.
“Robust stakeholder sensitization resulting in more informed/voluntary compliance.
“Increased disposition of officers and men to put national interest above selves.”
The NCS also disclosed that no fewer than 160 suspects were arrested and under investigation and prosecution.
It further listed its other achievements to include the installation of three brand new Scanners in Apapa, Tin-Can Island and Onne Ports, introduction of Mobile tracker and the acquisition of rugged gun trucks to secure anti-smuggling operatives in an increasingly hostile environment, among others.
While praying for the repose of the souls of some of its operatives, who paid the supreme price in the course of fighting smugglers, the NCS boss said his personnel remain totally comitted to the course of protecting national security and economy.
The body called on Nigerians, especially the business community, to support the NCS, adding that the country’s borders is open to African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) to benefit from the trade agreement.
What's your reaction?
