NMGS Advocates Collaboration with Customs to Tackle Resource Smuggling
The Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) has called for a robust partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to combat the growing menace of illegal smuggling of natural resources.
This illicit activity has not only led to significant revenue losses but also threatens the depletion of Nigeria’s critical raw materials.
During a high-level meeting at the NCS Headquarters in Abuja, NMGS President, Professor Akinade Olatunji, underscored the need for intensified efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s finite resources.
He urged Customs officers to enhance their capacity to identify and protect the nation’s wealth from illegal exploitation.
“We are aware of the vast quantities of resources leaving the country illegally,” Professor Olatunji remarked. “These finite assets must be protected. Collaborating with agencies at the exit points will ensure proper documentation, revenue remittance, and duty payments.”
The NMGS president further emphasised that improved coordination and resource monitoring would play a pivotal role in curbing illicit activities, securing Nigeria’s natural heritage, and supporting economic stability.
Responding to the NMGS proposal, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, highlighted the importance of collaboration with expert bodies such as the NMGS to address the challenges of resource smuggling.
He assured the society of the NCS’s readiness to prioritise officer training and adopt a multi-agency approach to tackle the issue.
“Illicitly smuggled resources flow out of the country without proper checks,” Adeniyi stated. “Through rigorous monitoring and accurate documentation, we can close gaps in export taxation, track resource destinations, and ensure appropriate revenue is generated.”
The meeting concluded with both parties pledging to work together in protecting Nigeria’s natural resources and fostering economic growth.
This partnership is expected to enhance the Customs Service’s capacity to detect and intercept illegal exports while strengthening the nation’s export revenue framework.
