The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, has announced a ban on commercial activities, including Point of Sale (PoS) operations, within its premises and related formations. This decision follows resolutions from the recent Comptroller General of Customs Conference held in Abuja.
Customs Area Controller, Babatunde Olomu, made the announcement during a parade with officers and staff on Wednesday. He emphasized that the ban also extends to customs officers engaging in cargo clearance activities, reinforcing the service’s focus on improving operational integrity. Olomu explained that one of the key outcomes of the conference was the commitment to diligent examinations of import and export cargo, with 100 percent physical checks where necessary.
Additionally, Olomu highlighted that officers in the enforcement unit must refrain from issuing arbitrary intervention alerts, which could create confusion and disrupt the coordinated efforts of the service. He stressed the importance of operating as a unified body to achieve more effective results.
The Customs boss also revealed that the ban would prevent PoS operators from operating near customs offices and prohibits customs officers from doubling as licensed clearing agents, a practice that could conflict with their official duties.
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In terms of performance, Olomu disclosed that the command had achieved a revenue collection of N2.01 trillion as of November 19, 2024, with a target of N2.2 trillion by the end of the month. He further noted that the Apapa Port Command contributes 40 percent of the total revenue collected by the NCS, underscoring its significant role in the national revenue framework.
Olomu commended the leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, who announced a total collection of N5.07 trillion for the service at the conference, and called on officers to emulate the CGC’s standards in revenue collection, trade facilitation, and uncompromising enforcement.
As part of the outcomes of the conference, Olomu also mentioned the implementation of mandatory medical checks for all officers to ensure their readiness and well-being. He encouraged officers to maintain high standards and ensure that seizures made from smugglers are followed by arrests and prosecutions, as this would enhance the fight against smuggling.
Olomu concluded by sharing the conference’s theme, which aligns with the World Customs Organisation’s focus on fostering relationships across organizations to achieve customs goals effectively.
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