The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Area 2 Command in Onne, Rivers State, has achieved a remarkable feat by surpassing its annual revenue target for 2024. The command reported a record-breaking revenue of N643 billion, exceeding its projected goal of N618 billion by N25 billion. This achievement represents 103% of the target and reflects the command’s commitment to efficient operations and revenue generation.
Area Controller Muhammed Babandede shared the good news during a press briefing, attributing the success to improved revenue strategies, increased export activities, and strengthened anti-smuggling measures. The revenue generated in 2024 also exceeded the previous year’s figure by N321 billion, marking a significant milestone for the command.
Babandede highlighted the confiscation of 76 containers with a duty-paid value exceeding N150 billion. The seized items included arms, ammunition, illicit medicines, vegetable oil, footwear, donkey skins, and used clothes, showcasing the command’s dedication to combating illegal activities.
One of the notable operations involved the interception of one million bottles of cough syrup, 500,000 bottles of extra diclofenac, and illicit drugs hidden in sanitary wares. Additionally, the command seized 12 containers with a duty-paid value of over N20 million, contributing to its success in anti-smuggling efforts.
The command’s achievements in anti-smuggling operations earned it recognition as the best-performing unit in this area, with Babandede acknowledging the leadership of Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi for guiding the command to success.
Furthermore, the command excelled in exports, generating over N1 billion from agro-commodities and solid minerals such as aluminium ingots, granular urea, orange peels, sesame seeds, and wheat bran. Babandede reaffirmed the command’s commitment to supporting legitimate trade and ensuring transparency in all operations.
Overall, the Nigeria Customs Service, Area 2 Command in Onne, Rivers State, has set a new standard for revenue generation and anti-smuggling efforts, showcasing its dedication to upholding the law and promoting legitimate trade practices.
