The Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has generated a revenue of N92,369,227.00 for the second quarter of 2024 which is 52.46% higher than what was generated during the same period in 2023.
During a Press Briefing in Abeokuta recently, the Controller of the Command, Comptroller James Ojo added that the Command surpassed the monthly revenue target of N34,122,666.90 in June 2024 by 77.86%.
He also disclosed that the Command made seizures worth N770,666,237.00 Duty Paid Value (DPV) and these feat was achievable as a result of the hard work of the officers in the Command.
” This achievement is a testament to the diligence, commitment, and professionalism of our officers and men who have worked tirelessly to ensure that we meet and exceed our revenue targets. It is also indicative of our unwavering commitment to the economic growth and development of our dear nation”
“This success aligns perfectly with the policy thrust of our Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi MFR dsm fnipr fniia psc(+), who has championed the principles of consolidation, collaboration, and innovation. His visionary leadership and enabling support have been crucial in enhancing our capabilities and driving these impressive results”
“In recent operations, we successfully intercepted 219 sacks and 1,725 parcels of cannabis sativa, 940 rounds of live ammunition, 44,466 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 2,227 pieces of pneumatic foreign-used tires, and 64 bales and 222 sacks of used clothes. Other interceptions include 2,947 cartons of frozen poultry products, 7,015 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 21 units of vehicles, 3 units of motorcycles, and 115 pairs of used shoes with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N770,666,237.00″
” These seizures are not just numbers; they represent our relentless fight against smuggling and our determination to protect the local economy, ensure public health and safety, and uphold the integrity of our borders.”
Comptroller James Ojo recalled that during his maiden press briefing held on 9 May 2024, he highlighted the adverse effects of smuggled cannabis sativa and foreign-used pneumatic tires on the citizenry.
In the same vein, he stated the health implications of consuming smuggled frozen poultry products.
“According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the health implications of consuming frozen poultry products preserved with chemicals and smuggled into Nigeria from the Republic of Benin can be severe and multifaceted. Some potential health risks include: Chemical contamination,foodborne illnesses, antibiotic resistance, nutritional deficiencies, allergic reactions and public health risks.”
He stated that the success would not have been possible without the support and cooperation of traditional rulers and security agencies in Ogun State.
“These interceptions also underscore the importance of continuous vigilance, collaboration, and the need for a united front in the fight against smuggling and other economic crimes”