The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has generated a revenue of ₦2,048,487,969.00 and made a seizure of ₦165,387,000.00 Duty Paid Value (DPV) in the month of February, 2025.
The Area Controller of the Command , Comptroller Joseph Olugbuyi Adelaja who assumed office on 7th February, 2025 disclosed this during his maiden press briefing at the operational headquarters of the Command in Ibadan, Oyo State on 28th February, 2025.
According to him, the revenue collected reflects the diligence and efficiency of Officers and men of the Command in ensuring compliance with extant Customs laws and policies as the Command has significantly reduced tax evasion through the adoption of advanced technology, such as the deployment of improved data analytics, which has enabled the Command to monitor trade flows and identify discrepancies effectively.
He stated that he Oyo/Osun Area Command has made significant strides in curbing smuggling activities, safeguarding the nation’s economy, and protecting local industries from the harmful effects of illicit trade.
Speaking further, the Area Controller said the interception of prohibited foreign parboiled rice has led to the increase in production and consumption of the local rice in Oyo and Osun State respectively.
He said the seized items include: 1043 bags (50kg) of foreign parboiled rice, 452 pieces of used tyres, 2 bales of used clothes and 233 kegs (25) liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
Comptroller Adelaja announced that the Command, in a bid to enhance border monitoring has intensified its surveillance of key entry points and transit routes within the Oyo/Osun region.
He emphasised that the Command will further prioritize the sensitization of the members of the public to raise awareness about the negative impact of smuggling on the economy and the well-being of the nation adding that the economic downturn facing Nigeria has created a number of challenges for the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly in the areas of revenue collection and the prevention of smuggling.
Comptroller Adelaja informed that the Command has als prioritized the engagement with excise factories and other stakeholders to ensure the continuity of operations and a steady flow of revenue as the approach also focused on building a strong relationship with the stakeholders and to ensure that the Command maintain trust and cooperation even in this challenging time.
He appreciated the efforts of the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniy and his Management Team in ensuring that the Officers and Men of the Command are well equipped to perform their primary duties.He also thanked the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Abiodun Makinde, traditional rulers and sister security agencies for providing an enabling environment for Officers and men of the Command to perform their duties.
“I officially assumed office as the Customs Area Controller of Oyo/Osun Area Command on 7th February 2025. Since taking over from my predecessor, Comptroller Dr. Ben Oramalugo, the Command has remained committed to its core mandates of revenue collection and anti-smuggling operations.
“I am highly impressed by their commitment and the level of support they have extended, which has significantly contributed to the successes recorded so far, despite the challenging economic downturn facing the nation.
“Within 2 weeks of my assumption of duty, the Command has intercepted and seized several high-profile smuggling consignments, including the seizure of foreign Rice, Second-hand clothing, Premium Motor Spirit and used tyres.
“The interception and seizure of these prohibited and uncustomed items have prevented the illegal inflow of products that undermine local industries, particularly rice farmers and manufacturers in the region.
“Through a combination of physical inspections, surveillance technology, and intelligence sharing with other security agencies. The Command’s Anti-smuggling operations have been strengthened through increased collaboration with other security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Immigration Service. These partnerships have facilitated the exchange of intelligence and allowed the joint operations to dismantle smuggling networks operating in the region.
“Through media engagements and outreach programs, the Command would empower the local communities with the basic knowledge and tools required to report smuggling activities. This initiative would equip the members of the public about the activities of the Nigeria Customs Service in order to support the fight against illegal trade.
“The low level of importation, fluctuating exchange rates, and inflation have all contributed to the economic challenges being faced. However, the Command has responded strategically to these challenges, ensuring that the Command remains resolute on its mission.
