The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has recorded significant revenue growth in 2024, largely driven by strategic technological advancements and enhanced collaboration with various agencies.
This achievement was announced by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, during a press briefing held on 30 August 2024 at the Command’s operational headquarters in Ibadan.
The Command collected a total revenue of ₦48.74 billion between January and August 2024. This marks a 2.74% increase compared to the ₦47.41 billion generated within the same period in 2023.
Comptroller Oramalugo attributed this success to a combination of factors, including improved monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, stronger stakeholder engagement, and the strategic application of technology.
“The enhanced use of technology has significantly boosted our ability to monitor activities, reduce bottlenecks, and prevent revenue leakages,” he said.
The Command’s achievements included a robust anti-smuggling campaign that led to the seizure of contraband goods worth over ₦713 million. This includes the interception of 40,915 litres of Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS), 2,020kg of Cannabis Sativa, 2,183 bags of foreign parboiled rice, and various other illegal items.
In the spirit of inter-agency collaboration, the Command handed over the seized Cannabis Sativa to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), while the PMS was auctioned to the public.
While expressing gratitude to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders for their continued support, the Comptroller affirmed the Command’s commitment to leveraging technology and innovative practices in line with the new NCS Act of 2023.
“As we move forward, we will continue to build on our successes and overcome challenges through professional integrity and service,” he concluded.
