The Oyo/Osun Command of Nigeria Customs Service has generated a whopping sum of
₦48,743,215,625.64 (Forty-Eight Billion, Seven Hundred and Forty-Three Million, Two Hundred and Fifteen Thousand, Six Hundred and Twenty-Five Naira, Sixty-Four Kobo) between January and August, 2024. This signifies 2.74% increase when compared to the sum of ₦47,408,251,086.73 (Forty-Seven Billion, Four Hundred and Eight Million, Two Hundred and Fifty-One Thousand, and Eighty-Six Naira, Seventy-Three Kobo) collected for same period last year.
Briefing newsmen at the operational headquarters of the command in Ibadan, Oyo State capital on Friday, the Area Controller, Dr. Ben Oramalugo, noted that between June and July 2024, the Command collected a total revenue of ₦13,311,191,473.12 (Thirteen Billion, Three Hundred and Eleven Million, One Hundred and Ninety-One Thousand, Four Hundred and Seventy-Three Naira, Twelve Kobo).
He added that for the period covering August 1st to August 23rd 2024, the Command collected the sum of ₦4,767,776,213.37 (Four Billion, Seven Hundred and Sixty-Seven Million, Seven Hundred and Seventy-Six Thousand, Two Hundred and Thirteen Naira, Thirty-Seven Kobo), making a total of ₦18,078,967,686.49 (Eighteen Billion, and Seventy-Eight Million, Nine Hundred and Sixty-Seven Thousand, Six Hundred and Eighty-Six Niara, Forty-Nine Kobo) collected between June and August.
The controller noted that the sum of ₦30,664,247,939:15 (Thirty Billion, Six Hundred and Sixty-Four Million, Two Hundred and Forty-Seven Thousand, Nine Hundred and Thirty-Nine Naira Fifteen Kobo) was generated between January to May 2024.
Oramalugo attributed the improved revenue performance to several factors including enhanced monitoring and enforcement, collaboration with stakeholders, and technologically advancements.
According to him, these factors have helped to improve monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, maintain proper engagement with key stakeholders to foster a collaborative approach, reduce bottlenecks and enhance the command’s ability to detect and prevent revenue leakages.
On anti-smuggling activities of the command, the controller stressed that the command has intensified its efforts in combating smuggling activities within its jurisdiction.
Oramalugo stated that from 14th June to 29th August, 2024, the command officers successfully intercepted and seized various contraband goods including 2448 (Two Thousand Four Hundred and Forty-Eight) wraps and another 11 (Eleven) sachets of Cannabis Sativa worth ₦148,932,000:00k (One Hundred and Forty-Eight Million, Nine Hundred and Thirty-Two Thousand Naira) to be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Oyo State Command on the approval of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, in the spirit of interagency collaboration.
He disclosed that a total of 40,915 litres of Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS) with a Duty Paid Value of ₦27,894,900.00 (Twenty-Seven Million, Eight Hundred and Ninety-Four Thousand, Nine Hundred Naira only) was seized during the period.
He explained that an approval was received to auction the Petroleum Motor Spirit due to its inflammable nature.
Pointing its quest to tackle the ever-evolving tactics of smugglers, the controller said the command is presently adopting various technological innovations, as well as strengthening collaboration with other security agencies, stakeholders and the general public to combat smuggling and protect the economy from the dangers of illicit trade.
“The milestone recorded here today are as a result of strategic intelligence gathering, increased patrols, and the dedication of Command officers who have demonstrated exceptional vigilance and commitment to duty. The proactive measures taken by various Command anti-smuggling teams have not only prevented illegitimate trade but also protected our communities from the dangers posed by these illicit goods,” the controller said.
Oramalugo hinted that the command would continue to leverage technology and innovative practices in line with the new NCS Act of 2023 to further enhance its operations and deliver on its mandate.
The command boss extended his appreciation to the Comptroller General and his management team as well as 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 and other stakeholders for their continued support and collaboration.
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