Oyo,Osun customs Q3 2024 revenue profile exceeds 2023 by 27.5%

..Intercepts 31 smuggled goods, 49 sacks of cannabis

…As Oramalugo praises CGC, Adeniyi, Gov Makinde for unwavering support

By Ezurike Udochukwu

The Nigeria Customs Service(NCS) Oyo/Osun Area Command said it has generated a total revenue sum of N23.9 billion for the third quarter of 2024, reflecting a 27.5% increase over the sum of ₦17.3bn generated in the corresponding period of 2023,

The Area Controller of the command, Dr Ben Oramalugo, who made the disclosure to Journalists on Wednesday at the Command’s headquarters Ibadan said it has generated a cumulative revenue of N56.6 billion from January to September.

The said cumulative revenue reflects 7.85% increase when compared to the sum of ₦52,206,458,966.50 generated in same corresponding period of January to September 2023.

Oramalugo said 31 successful interception of smuggled goods through illegal routes was achieved by Intensified border patrols along the Oyo and Osun axis

Through technological innovation and collaborative expediencies engineered by Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) BA Adeniyi the command would hand over 49 sacks of Cannabis Sativa with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦46,935,000.00k to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Fake pharmaceutical drugs with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦596,856,500.00k will also be handed over to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC),

The intercepted counterfeit drugs include Analgin Injection, Amoxicillin Capsules (500mg), Buscomac Tablets (10mg), Chloramphenicol Tablets (BP 250mg), and Pentazocine Injection (30mg), among others, which were concealed in sacks and cartons and seized in Iwere Ile, Oke-Ogun, Oyo State.

The use of technology, especially the NICIS II he said has allowed the command to make more efficient their processes and increase transparency. Which has also led to improved compliance from the Commands stakeholders.

Oramalugo said, “I would like to state that the revenue generated reflects the resilience and dedication of Command officers in ensuring strict compliance with customs laws and regulations while facilitating legitimate trade. We recognize the pivotal role we play in the nation’s economic recovery and we are committed to continuing this upward trajectory in revenue generation”.

On anti-smuggling, the Controller disclosed that the period August 30th, 2024 to October 29th, 2024, officers of the Command successfully intercepted and seized various contraband goods with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦755.8m

Among the seizures were foreign parboiled rice, second hand clothes, used tyres, cannabis sativa and petroleum motor spirit.

He stated “In addition to revenue collection, the Oyo/Osun Area Command has prioritized its anti-smuggling operations, particularly during these challenging times when illicit trade poses a direct threat to the livelihoods of law-abiding citizens and the economy at large.

“In a bid to achieve set objectives, the Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has intensified its efforts in combating smuggling activities within our jurisdiction through the following.”

The command he said would stop at nothing to support, encourage and facilitate legitimate trade in order to sustain the integrity of their anti smuggling operations and enhance economic growth.

The Oyo/Osun Area Command the controller said will continue to work with all stakeholders, including the local communities, security agencies and traders. Would leverage on the use of modern technology, build capacity of her officers, to see that they are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to confront emerging threats and maximize operational efficiency and continue public sensitization campaigns to ensure that they achieve their goals.

He went on to say, “I would like to use this medium as always to express the Command’s profound gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) BA Adeniyi and his Management Team for the support that they have continually extended to the Command, to ensure the core mandates of the Service are achieved within Oyo and Osun States.

“I would also like to extend my profound gratitude to His Excellency the Executive Governor of Oyo State Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE, Traditional Rulers in both Oyo and Osun States, Sister Security Agencies, Sister Units of the Customs Service, all officers of the Oyo/Osun Area Command for their tireless dedication to duty and other Stakeholders for their continued support and collaboration in making these achievements possible. Together, we will build on our successes and overcome the challenges ahead as we strive to fulfill our mandate.

“Finally, I would like to urge members of the public to continue supporting the Command’s efforts by providing timely information and cooperating with the Command to combat the challenges posed by smugglers and economic saboteurs. Together, we will continue to safeguard our borders, boost revenue generation, and contribute to the economic development.”