MMIA Customs Command Records 94% Revenue Growth, Seizes Contraband Worth Over N3.3 Billion
The Murtala Muhammed Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced an impressive surge in revenue and enforcement successes for the period spanning January to October 2024.
Comptroller Michael Toyin Awe, the Area Controller, disclosed that the Command recorded a revenue of N144.2 billion, representing a significant 94% increase compared to the N74.3 billion generated during the same period in 2023.
Comptroller Awe revealed that the remarkable revenue growth, totalling an additional N69.9 billion, was achieved through customs duties and other associated charges.
He attributed the success to enhanced trade facilitation measures, improved stakeholder compliance, and intelligent resource deployment.
In addition to revenue achievements, the Command intensified its anti-smuggling operations, resulting in the seizure of contraband items valued at N3.32 billion in Duty Paid Value (DPV) between July and October 2024.
The seized items, which violated provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, include: 23 pieces of walkie-talkies, 175 military helmets, 50 drones, 10 packs of Canadian Cannabis Sativa, and 250 live turtles.
Other seized contraband include seven packages of Tramadol Hydrochloride (200mg and 225mg), 1.5kg of pangolin scales and 0.2kg of porcupine pins.
These results, Comptroller Awe noted, were the outcome of strategic law enforcement, interagency collaboration, and advanced risk management techniques.
The Command has implemented various initiatives to sustain its achievements. These include streamlined clearance procedures, enhanced cargo inspection, improved intelligence gathering, and regular engagement with stakeholders such as importers, exporters, and clearing agents.
The Command has also leveraged technology to improve operational efficiency and ensure compliance with extant laws.
Looking ahead, Comptroller Awe assured the public of the Command’s commitment to enhancing trade facilitation measures, bolstering anti-smuggling efforts, and fostering greater collaboration with stakeholders.
Expressing gratitude, Comptroller Awe commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and his management team for their steadfast support.
He also praised the officers and personnel of the Command for their dedication and hard work in achieving these milestones.
Additionally, he recognised the role of stakeholders and the media in fostering a conducive environment for the Command’s operations.
With this report, the Command continues to set new benchmarks in revenue generation and trade facilitation, reinforcing its role as a critical player in Nigeria’s economic development.
