Oyo/Osun Customs Command Seizes Smuggled Goods Worth Over N755 Million
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Oyo/Osun Area Command has reported significant progress in its revenue generation and anti-smuggling efforts for the third quarter of 2024.
Speaking at the operational headquarters in Ibadan, Customs Area Controller Dr Ben Oramalugo PhD, Harvard-certified, detailed the Command’s accomplishments despite prevailing economic challenges.
Dr Oramalugo highlighted the commitment of the Oyo/Osun Command to its dual mandate of revenue collection and curbing smuggling activities, essential for stabilising the national economy.
He revealed that the Command generated N23.97 billion in the third quarter of 2024, reflecting a remarkable 27.5% increase over the same period last year.
This boost brings the cumulative revenue from January to September to N56.66 billion, representing a 7.85% rise compared to the corresponding period in 2023.
According to Dr Oramalugo, this achievement results from streamlined processes enabled by advanced technology, particularly the NICIS II system, which has increased transparency and compliance.
He noted that a substantial portion of this revenue came from excise duties on legitimate production activities within the Command’s jurisdiction.
He commended Command officers for their vigilance and dedication, stressing the importance of their role in supporting Nigeria’s economic recovery.
Beyond revenue collection, the Oyo/Osun Command also intensified its anti-smuggling operations.
Dr Oramalugo announced that from August 30 to October 29, 2024, the Command successfully intercepted and seized various contraband goods valued at N755.9 million.
Key items seized included 433 bags of foreign rice, 61 bales of second-hand clothing, and 49 sacks of cannabis, among others.
“These operations are not merely about revenue but about safeguarding our economy and protecting law-abiding businesses,” Dr Oramalugo stated.
He added that the Command’s anti-smuggling success is due to intelligence-driven operations and collaboration with local communities.
The Command has engaged in community outreach initiatives to educate the public on the adverse effects of smuggling and has received valuable cooperation from residents.
In line with policy directives from Comptroller General BA Adeniyi, the Command will hand over confiscated fake pharmaceuticals worth N596.86 million to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and cannabis valued at N46.94 million to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Dr Oramalugo expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde, traditional rulers, sister security agencies, and the Customs Management Team for their continued support.
He called on the public to continue providing timely information and cooperating with customs officers to combat smuggling and economic sabotage.
