The Murtala Muhammed Area Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reported collection of a total duty of Eighty Billion, Three hundred and Fifty One Million, Two Hundred and Ninety Nine Thousand and Sixty Eight Naira Only (N80,351,299,068.00) on Customs duty and other charges.
The amount, according to the Command Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Michael Toyin Awe was realised between January 1, and June 30, 2024.
Awe who made this known during a media briefing held at the Area Command Headquarters, Hajj and Cargo Area of Murtala Muhammed International Airport Lagos said the feat was possible based on the efforts built on the achievements of the previous year both in the area of revenue generation and in anti-smuggling activities.
“The Command from January to June, 2024 was able to collect a total duty of Eighty Billion, Three hundred and Fifty One Million, Two Hundred and Ninety Nine Thousand and Sixty Eight Naira Only (N80,351,299,068.00) on Customs duty and other charges.
“In comparison to the revenue collected same period in 2023, the revenue stood at Thirty Eight Billion, Seven Hundred and Seven Million, Fifty four Thousand, Two Hundred and Sixteen Naira, Forty Four Kobo only (N38,707,054,216.44) which clearly shows a progressive difference of Forty One Billion, Six Hundred and Forty Four Million, Two Hundred and Forty Six Thousand, Eight Hundred and Fifty One Naira, Fifty Six Kobo only (N41,644,246,851.56) depicting 107.5% increase,” Awe said.
Since his assumption off at the Customs Area Command, Awe is noted to have brought up strategies in line with World Customs best practices that have aided the ease of doing business, trade facilitation, reduction of cargo clearance time and increase in revenue generation.
Also, the Command recorded export of goods with Export Value worth of Two Hundred and Sixty Six Million, Six Hundred and Fifty Five Thousand, One Hundred and Thirteen Naira, Sixty Six Kobo only (N266,655,113.66K) from the country from January to June, 2024 with an Free On Board (FOB) value of Two Hundred and Four Thousand, Five Hundred and Ninety Seven Dollars, Seven Cents ($204,597.07).
Speaking with journalists at the media conference, the Controller reiterated the Command’s commitment to sustain and improve upon revenue generation in the second half of 2024.
Awe who sought the continuous cooperation of all stakeholders, assured of the Command’s commitment to promoting ease of doing business and trade facilitation.
The Controller also commended Officers and Men of Murtala Muhammed Area Command for their dedication to the noble course of combating smuggling and implored them to always adhere strictly to the rules of engagements while discharging their statutory duties.
He, nevertheless, concluded by appreciating the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (MFR) and his management team for always giving the Command the leverage to perform.
VICTOR OGAGBOR
Superintendent of Customs
Public Relations Officer,
Murtala Muhammed Area Command.
