By Harriet Tornguvan
.......House Committee on Customs Lauds NCS for Revenue Boost and Arms Seizures
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has been praised by the House Committee on Customs and Excise for its impressive revenue generation and contributions to national security.
This commendation came during an oversight visit to the NCS Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, July 10, 2024.
Hon. Leke Abejide, Chairman of the House Committee on Customs and Excise, highlighted the NCS's exceptional revenue performance, trade facilitation, and recent successful arms and ammunition seizures at a Bonded Terminal in Onne Port, Rivers State, and Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos State.
Abejide emphasized that these actions reflect the vigilance and effectiveness of the NCS, potentially saving countless lives and showcasing the dedication of NCS personnel in securing Nigeria’s borders.
Abejide urged the NCS to maintain its diligence, stating, “Every weapon and illicit item seized is a victory, but every attempt to smuggle them into Nigeria is a call to redouble our efforts."
Mr Abejide also announced plans to investigate the operations of Bonded Terminals and Free Trade Zones to eliminate illegal activities.
Responding to the commendation, Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi expressed gratitude for the recognition from the House Committee.
The Custom Boss underscored the importance of legislative oversight in ensuring the NCS's efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
Adeniyi affirmed the NCS's commitment to complying with legislative directives and continuously improving its processes to enhance trade facilitation and border security.
Deputy Comptroller-General Caroline Niagwan, in charge of Tariff and Trade, reported that the NCS generated 2.742 trillion naira in the first half of 2024, surpassing the target of 2.539 trillion naira and achieving 54 percent of the annual revenue goal.
Niagwan- attributed the success to teamwork and measures to prevent revenue leakages. Noting that the NCS has implemented international best practices through the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Programs, rewarding compliant traders with expedited customs processes.
Deputy Comptroller-General Bello Jibo, responsible for Enforcement, Inspection, and Investigation, revealed that the NCS's 'Operation Whirlwind' had led to significant seizures of petroleum products.
Jibo highlighted the NCS's collaboration with the NNPC and other security agencies to enhance operations and intelligence sharing.
Assistant-Comptroller General Kikelomo Adeola, in charge of Information and Communication Technology, mentioned that NCS officers developed the application for the e-auction.
Adekola added that ongoing capacity-building programs and the Trade Modernization Project are focused on providing the necessary software and hardware to improve NCS operations.
