In a recent revelation, the Nigerian Customs Agency has unveiled its significant achievements in intercepting illicit substances and contributing substantially to government revenue.
According to a statement from the agency’s Public Relations Officer, Mailafiya Magaji, operations conducted between August and October 2023 resulted in the interception of Marijuana, Tramadol, and foreign parboiled rice with a combined value exceeding N900 million.
The statement detailed the confiscation of 17 sacks containing 1,199 loaves of Cannabis Sativa (Marijuana), totaling 663.5kg during September and October 2023. Notable arrests were made along the Moba waterways and Sanki Beach Axis on August 31, 2023, and October 4, 2023, respectively.
Comptroller Odaudu Salefu, the Customs Area Controller, reported the seizure of 66,000 capsules of 225mg Tramadol and 1,257 sacks of foreign parboiled rice, surpassing a duty paid value of 50 million Naira. Additionally, 3,750 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) were confiscated during two separate arrests on October 27, 2023.
Magaji emphasized the agency’s commitment to upholding government fiscal policies, prohibitions, and restrictions to safeguard national security and foster economic growth. The statement highlighted the importance of public cooperation in adhering to these measures.
In a parallel announcement, the Nigerian Customs Agency claimed to have generated over N11 billion in revenue during the same period, from August to October 2023. This revenue was successfully remitted to the federal government’s account.
Ben Oramalugo, the Customs Area Controller, attributed the surge in revenue to the Command’s unwavering dedication to trade facilitation, stringent enforcement of Customs laws, and the creation of a conducive business environment. He disclosed that the Command’s total collection from January to October 2023 stands at N59,087,983,670.64, with N11,679,732,583.91 generated in September and October 2023.
These accomplishments, Oramalugo noted, were made possible through the timely sharing of credible intelligence and effective collaboration among all units of the Nigeria Customs Service in Oyo and Osun States, including the Federal Operations Unit and Border Drill.
