The Assistant Comptroller General, Nigeria Custom Service, Southwest Zone, Saidu Yusuf, On Thursday, announced plans to leverage cutting -edge technology for robust border, anti-smuggling efforts and promoting trade facilitation.
He however commended the Ogun Area II Command for generating a record-breaking N20 billion in revenue for the Federal Government from January to August, surpassing last year’s N14 billion during the same period.
He made the remarks during his evaluation tour of the command in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
According to Yusuf, the Customs Service is intensifying its technological push to strengthen border security and enhance patrol efficiency as part of Comptroller -General Bashir Adeniyi’s initiatives to modernise Custom operations across borders and seaports.
He noted that , “We recognize the vulnerability of our borders, and the only effective solution lies in leveraging modern technology. However, this requires extensive training and retraining, which we’re actively pursuing. Acquiring advanced aircraft is a crucial part of this technological upgrade.”
“To those considering bringing illegal arms or drugs into Nigeria, beware, the Nigeria Customs Service is on high alert, leveraging advanced intelligence and collaboration with security agencies to thwart such attempts.” he added.
The Assistant Comptroller General while Reviewing the command’s performance under the Comptroller General’s watch, he said,”The command has achieved impressive revenue growth under Comptroller Olusola Alade’s leadership, generating over N20 billion, nearing N21 billion, as of August.”
Compared to the same period last year, when we earned around N14 billion, our current performance is truly impressive, especially considering the challenging economic climate and exchange rates in the country. Despite these obstacles, the command has still managed to deliver exceptional results.”
In his welcome address, Comptroller General Olusola Alade acknowledged and appreciated Yusuf’s complimentary remarks about the command.
In conclusion, He solicited for assistance in two key areas: providing more residential quarters for officers and upgrading the command’s medical facility with vital equipment.
Eniola Jolaoso