By Harriet Tornguvan
The Customs Area Controller of Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu has emphasized the Command's commitment to achieving its ambitious N2.3 trillion revenue target for 2024 through the implementation of modern customs practices, particularly the use of non-intrusive inspection technologies and necessary physical examinations.
Olomu asserts that the projected revenue is attainable due to the command’s dedication to trade facilitation and strategic measures designed to curb revenue leakages. Under his leadership, the command has enhanced its revenue collection and efficiency by building on the successes of his predecessor, reinforcing its position as a leading unit of the Nigeria Customs Service.
To meet the revenue target, the command has established proactive monthly, weekly, and daily goals of N193 billion, N44 billion, and N8.9 billion, respectively. In the first quarter of 2024, the command exceeded its target with a collection of N489 billion. Additionally, April saw a revenue generation of N182 billion, and May yielded N175 billion.
Despite a slight dip in May’s revenue, Olomu remains confident that the command will generate N200 billion in June due to effective interventions. He assured that all necessary measures, including strict supervision from the headquarters, are being implemented to achieve this goal.
A critical tool in the command’s strategy is the use of scanning machines, which facilitate trade for compliant traders and detect duty evasion attempts through detailed scans and physical examinations. Olomu acknowledged that ensuring appropriate tax payments is essential, as many individuals are often reluctant to pay taxes unless compelled to do so.
The command’s diligent checks on declarations and consignments using non-intrusive technology and physical examinations have sometimes made non-compliant traders uncomfortable, leading to attempts at blackmail and other tactics to undermine the officers' morale. Nevertheless, the officers remain steadfast in their duties.
Compliant traders have no reason to fear, as the command prioritizes not only revenue generation but also trade facilitation. To expedite cargo delivery, reduce port terminal congestion, and alleviate road gridlock, the command has increased collaborations with barge operators and terminal operators. This partnership, involving other area commands, aims to transport cargoes via waterways, which is faster than road transport.
The command clarified that containers are randomly selected for scanning, preventing any undue influence over the process. Scanning is a globally recognized technology crucial for preventing duty evasion, a common practice among some traders.
Comptroller Olomu highlighted the importance of both scanning and physical examinations. He explained that while scanners reveal the contents of consignments through imagery, they have limitations, such as the inability to classify items or detect certain materials, necessitating physical checks for verification.
He elaborated that certain consignments, especially those containing chemicals or heterogeneous items, require physical examination to ensure proper classification and accurate revenue collection. Even when documentation appears correct, physical checks may be necessary for thorough verification.
The standard operating procedure (SOP) for scanning includes booking, scanning, and analysis by human analysts, who may call for physical checks if needed. The process remains thorough until the consignment is validated and released. Olomu emphasized that preliminary scanning does not guarantee immediate release, as further review may be required to ensure compliance and accurate valuation.
Overall, the Apapa Area Command under Comptroller Olomu’s leadership continues to leverage advanced scanning technologies and strategic physical examinations to enhance revenue collection and facilitate trade, all while maintaining a rigorous commitment to preventing revenue leakages and ensuring compliance.
