By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Nigeria Customs Service, Apapa Area Command, has shattered previous revenue records by collecting an astonishing N489,614,095,022.15 in the first quarter of 2024.
This figure marks a staggering increase of over 100% compared to the N212.5 billion collected during the same period in 2023.
The announcement came through a press release from the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Abubakar Usman, on Saturday, April 6, 2024.
Commander Babajide Jaiyeoba, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Command, hailed this achievement as a significant stride towards reaching their ambitious target for the year.
With a target set at nearly N2 trillion for 2024, Jaiyeoba emphasized the pivotal role of compliance in achieving this objective.
Jaiyeoba underscored the importance of adhering to established protocols, including the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023, government import/export prohibition lists, Common External Tariff, and Federal Government-approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
He stated that diligent compliance not only ensures smoother operations but also unlocks a myriad of benefits for all stakeholders.
Expressing gratitude to the Officers and port stakeholders for their cooperation, Jaiyeoba called for sustained compliance from both government and private sector entities.
He urged all stakeholders within the Apapa Port to continue supporting the Customs Service in fostering an efficient and rules-based system for import/export cargo clearance.
“I will continue my weekly engagement of stakeholders at various levels to sustain the tempo of our achievements and consolidate on the gains from regular enlightenment of every member of the port community,” said Jaiyeoba, highlighting the importance of ongoing communication and collaboration.
In his address, Jaiyeoba reiterated the role of the Apapa Command in realizing the NCS’s annual target of N5.7 trillion for 2024, stressing the collective responsibility of all involved parties.
Furthermore, Jaiyeoba outlined the benefits of compliance, including the recently launched Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program.
He noted that honest declaration not only enhances reputational integrity but also expedites cargo processing, reduces costs, and mitigates the risk of penalties or seizure.
As the Command gears up for the second quarter of 2024, Jaiyeoba expressed confidence in surpassing previous achievements.
“As we step into the second quarter to end the first half of 2024, I am convinced we will do better in revenue collection, facilitate more trade through our port, and prevent smuggling under any guise,” he affirmed.