Command generates N18 billion from June to August
The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has handed over seized cannabis sativa, valued at N148.93 million, to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and recorded the sum of N18,078,967,686.49 generation between June 14, 2024, to August 29, 2024.
The Area Controller, Dr. Ben Oramalugo said that in a bid to tackle the ever-evolving tactics of smugglers, the Command has adopted various technological innovations, as well as strengthened collaboration with other security agencies, stakeholders and the general public to combat smuggling and protect our economy from the dangers of illicit trade.
Dr. Oramalugo said that despite the prevailing economic challenges that played a major role in the decision-making of various stakeholders operating within the Command Area of coverage, the Oyo/Osun Area Command achieved remarkable success in its revenue collection.
He revealed that for June and July 2024, the Command collected a total revenue of ₦13,311,191,473.12. For the period covering August 1, 2024 to August 23, 2024, the Command has collected the sum of ₦4,767,776,213.37, making a total of ₦18,078,967,686.49.
Cumulatively, when added to the sum of ₦30,664,247,939:15 generated between January to May 2024, the sum of ₦48,743,215,625.64 was collected. This signifies a 2.74% increase when compared to the sum of ₦47,408,251,086.73 collected from January to August 2023.
Speaking during the handover of the cannabis, the Area Controller said the seizure, which consisted of 2,448 wraps and 11 sachets of cannabis sativa weighing a total of 2,020 kilograms.
He noted that the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) BA Adeniyi had approved the transfer of the seized narcotics to the NDLEA as part of efforts to ensure that the illegal drugs are kept out of circulation and properly destroyed.
“The decision to hand over the seized cannabis sativa to the NDLEA is a reflection of our commitment to supporting the agency in its mandate to rid the country of illegal drugs.”
He further emphasised that the collaboration between the Customs Service and the NDLEA is crucial in maintaining the safety and security of the nation.
In addition to the cannabis seizure, the Oyo/Osun Area Command also recorded other significant anti-smuggling successes during the same period. These included the interception of 40,915 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 2,183 bags of foreign parboiled rice, and various used vehicles and tyres, with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦713.15 million.
Dr. Oramalugo reiterated the Command’s dedication to combating smuggling and protecting the economy from the adverse effects of illicit trade.
He assured that the Command would continue to adopt innovative strategies and strengthen partnerships with other security agencies to achieve its goals.
