The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Command on Monday stated that it generated N1.5 billion as revenue between January and March this year.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Selchang Taupyen, in Badagry, Lagos State, the Command also confirmed that it made a total of 270 seizures, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N235.6 million during the review period.
Taupyen attributed the growth in revenue collection by the Command to the intensified surveillance efforts.
He stated: “In the first three months of the year, the command has generated 1,576,153,186 billion and as well, within one year, seized over 32,000 bags of rice with a DPV of N530 million.
“This, however, goes to show that the command under the watchful eyes of its Area Controller, Mr Mohammed Aliyu, is determined to block any form of corruption and as well eradicate smuggling.
“Men of the command have marked some strategic places around the border for effective policing. We adhere strictly to government policies and we therefore appeal to the public to do same”, Taupyen added
This is even as he stated that the Area Comptroller also appealed to the public to change its perception about the Command and report erring officials to the appropriate authorities.
According to him, the Command’s leadership is committed to changing the public perception towards the NCS by instilling discipline in the men and officers and ensuring that the method of operations of the Service conform to international best practices.
Stating that the measures had become imperative in view of the fact that the border is Nigeria’s gateway to and from West African countries, Aliyu explained that “with that in mind, there is a need for international travellers to be treated with dignity, a high degree of respect, transparency and professionalism, while we also discharge our duties effectively at the same time.”
He explained that Seme border was already undergoing a positive metamorphosis, despite the fact that sometimes, some few recalcitrant officers are always seen among the committed and patriotic ones.
Aliyu appealed to the public change its perception as the border is meant for legitimate trade and not for smuggling activities.
