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Tag: NCS

  • BREAKING: Tinubu appoints new Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service

    BREAKING: Tinubu appoints new Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service

    President Bola Tinubu has approved the confirmation of the appointment of Adewale Adeniyi as the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

    The appointment takes effect from 19th October, 2023 and his tenure is in accordance with the extant provisions of the Public Service Rules (PSR).

    According to a statement by Willie Bassey, Director of Information in the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Tinubu tasked Adeniyi to bring his wealth of experience to bear on his new assignment.

  • How Customs exceeded monthly revenue target in July, August

    How Customs exceeded monthly revenue target in July, August

    Acting Comptroller-General (CG) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr Adewale Adeniyi has disclosed the service exceeded its revenue target for the months of July and August.

    Adeniyi, who spoke while presenting the scorecard for his 100 days in office on Thursday in Abuja, said that the NCS generated N307 billion in July and N343 billion in August

    “One of our early achievements has been a remarkable boost in monthly revenue collection.

    “We have witnessed a substantial increase, with an average monthly collection of 202 billion in the first half of the year that concluded in June, surging to an impressive 343 billion in August.

    “This outstanding growth amounts to a remarkable 70.13 per cent increase in revenue collection.

    “I am delighted to announce that we have consistently exceeded the monthly target collection, marking a remarkable departure from previous performances,” he said.

    He said that the ongoing revenue recovery review activities had contributed an additional eight billion Naira during the period.

    “This underlines our commitment to revenue generation. Subject to unforeseen circumstances, our aim is to sustain and even expand this momentum until the end of the year.

    “This commitment is driven by our resolve to minimise the deviation from the target, especially in light of the substantial shortfalls recorded during the first half of the year,” Adeniyi said.

    He said that the NCS had recorded appreciable results in its ongoing battle against smuggling

    “We have successfully intercepted various contraband items, including arms, ammunition, illicit drugs, substandard pharmaceuticals and other prohibited goods that pose grave risks to our citizens.

    “These seizures accompanied by the apprehension of 62 suspects undergoing legal procedures, underscore our commitment to tackling smuggling and safeguarding our communities.

    “Notably, a significant surge in impactful seizures, especially involving arms, ammunition, and drugs, has occurred in the past two months, reinforcing our resolve to combat these illegal activities,” he said.

    He said that NCS had forged stronger alliances and fostered an environment of trust and cooperation among stakeholders in the public and private sectors., as well as international partners.

    The acting CG said that NCS was at the verge of introducing multiple cutting-edge solutions to support the enforcement strategies, starting with the signing of an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that seeks to put vehicle smugglers out of business for good.

    “As we reflect on the achievements of the first 100 days in office and the journey we have embarked upon, it is essential to look ahead with a clear vision for the future.

    “The next phase builds upon the foundation we have laid, and it is characterised by unwavering dedication to our policy thrust of consolidation, collaboration, and innovative solutions.

    “Looking forward, we envision a service that is not only the most efficient and service-driven government organ but also a pivotal driver of national economic growth and border security.

    “There are also challenges we face but we are working hard to overcome it and get a better result,” he said.

    According to him, the NCS plays a pivotal role in facilitating international trade and economic growth and equally serves as a bridge connecting the nation to the global marketplace.

    He expressed commitment to aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda on economic growth and development.

  • Nigeria Customs impounds rice, fuel, other items worth N1.8bn in Seme

    Nigeria Customs impounds rice, fuel, other items worth N1.8bn in Seme

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced that its Seme area command has made a series of seizures of contraband items worth N1.8 billion from January 23 to September 8, 2023.

    The Customs area comptroller, Dera Nandi, disclosed this to the press in Seme on Friday. He said the seized items include:

    9,500 50kg bags of foreign parboiled rice, valued at N312.2 million

    13,835 jerrycans of petrol, equivalent to 415,050 litres or 13 tankers, valued at N738.3 million

    15,389 assorted goods, such as textiles, shoes, bags, and electronics

    41 parcels of cannabis sativa and 9,657 tablets of Tramadol and ecstasy

    864 packs of cigarettes

    He also revealed that the command intercepted 1,364 jerrycans of petrol, equivalent to 40,800 litres or one tanker, along the Badagry Creek on September 8. The petrol had a duty paid value of N24.7 million.

    Nandi said the command had surpassed the revenue target for the year 2023, which was N1.96 billion. He said the command had collected N1.9 billion as of September 8, representing 97.2% of the target.

    He attributed the impressive performance to the efforts of the command’s leadership and staff, as well as the cooperation of the stakeholders.

    He also said the command had made some remarkable seizures in the area of anti-smuggling operation, such as fake six million U.S. dollars, 15 fake international passports and 10 driver’s licences, and donkey skins in January 2023.

    He said the acting Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, had commended and congratulated the officers involved in these seizures. He presented commendations and congratulatory letters to 18 beneficiaries at the event.

  • How suspected smuggler tried to bribe Customs officials – NCS

    How suspected smuggler tried to bribe Customs officials – NCS

    The Tincan Island Port Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has noted that a suspect, Mr Boniface Ike, offered its officer a N50 million bribe for the release of his seized container.

    Comptroller Mr Adekunle, the Area Controller of the command, made this known at a  news conference in Lagos on Monday, where he stated that the seized contraband was allegedly imported from India.

    According to Oloyede, the suspect and one of his accomplices are detained at the command’s Enforcement Unit for investigation.

    “I instructed my officers to play along; the request was granted in expectation of receiving vital information from the suspect. But to their bewilderment, the suspect pleaded for his freedom from detention and the release of the containers.

    “He offered gratification to the tune of N50 million, as displayed, equivalent to $54,330 at the current exchange rate of N920. The money was collected and kept in safe custody at the enforcement unit to be tendered as an exhibit,” he narrated.

    Oloyede, who confirmed that the command received timely intelligence from its Customs Intelligence Unit, said the products were concealed in two 40-foot containers with bills of lading numbers 227578945 and 227898171.

    “On arrival of the vessel at Tincan Island Container Terminal (TICT), the containers (MRSU 592397/0 and MRKU 553432/1) were transferred immediately to the enforcement station for 100 per cent physical examination and further investigation,” he affirmed.

    The physical examination was conducted on both containers by enforcement officers, Customs Intelligence Operatives, Customs Police, and examination officers of the terminal on Aug. 22 at about 2 pm and Aug. 23 at about 1 pm, respectively.

    It was discovered at the end of the examination that the content contradicted the bill of lading for the container numbered MRSU 592397/0.

    The bill of lading (No. 227578945) stated that the contents are electricals, ceiling fan, 36 jewels (Cooper) and chilly cutters (stainless steel plastic)

    “After examination, the container was found to contain five cartons of Timaking 120 tapentadol (Tramadol) hydrochloride carisoprodol capsules. Each carton contains 50 rolls; each roll contains five packets, and each packet contains 200 tablets,” he said.

    Other contents in the containers were listed as 84 cartons of gastro-resistant omeprazole capsule BP 200mg, each carton contains 50 packets, each packet contains 10 capsules; 876 cartons of CSMIX cough syrup containing codeine (each bottle 100ml) with each carton containing 200 bottles, 50 cartons of manual grater machines, with 70 pieces per carton; and one carton of a ceiling fan.

    The second container, numbered MRKU 553432/1, was found to contain 10 cartons of Super Royal 225mg (Tramadol)..

    Oloyede stated: “Each carton contains 50 rolls; each roll contains 10 packets; each packet contains 10 tablets. Other contents are 105 cartons of Omeprazole Capsule BP 200mg; each carton contains 50 packets, each packet containing 10 capsules; 754 cartons of Barcadin with Codeine 100ml, and each carton contains 200 Bottles; 50 cartons of manual grater machines, 70 pieces per carton, and one carton of compo ceiling fan.”

    The unregistered pharmaceutical products intercepted, according to him, were regulated products by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

    He also said the importer had no required permits and certificates for importation or documents to ascertain the safety of the products for Nigerians.

    Oloyede noted that the suspects, containers, and exhibit would be handed over to the agencies charged with the responsibility to regulate and prosecute offenders for crimes.

     

  • Customs confiscates contraband worth N164.8m in Kebbi

    Customs confiscates contraband worth N164.8m in Kebbi

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kebbi Area Command, says it has seized contraband worth N164.8 million in the state.

    Dr Ben Oramalugo, the Area Controller of NCS in the state, said this at a press conference on the achievements of the command on Saturday in Birnin Kebbi.

    He said, ”We directed our officers to intensify surveillance in all the nooks and crannies of the state, having had credible intelligence on the impending activities of smugglers.

    “The following items were, therefore, seized during the period; 371 parcels of cannabis sativa, otherwise called Indian hemp, intercepted at Kawara water side, in Suru Local Government Area.

    “We also seized 98 packs of diazepam,10 sacks of snuff, 1,080 pieces of donkey skin, 37 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 300 litres of PMS, 16 bales of second hand clothing and used Toyota Corolla as means of conveyance, among others.”

    The area comptroller pegged the duty paid value of the seized items at N164.8 million.

    On illegal drugs, he said the command had handed over cannabis sativa and hard drugs worth N94.8 million to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

    “The seizure of such drugs is in line with the vow we made and our determination to rid the state of drug inflow and all items capable of causing harm to Nigerians,” he said.

    Alhaji Sulaiman Usman, the NDLEA Commander who received the drugs, thanked the NCS for its efforts in curtailing the menace of illegal importation of drugs and anti-smuggling activities in the state.

    “This is in line with the untiring effort and drive of our Chief Executive Officer/Chairman of NDLEA, Buba Marwa, in combatting the menace of drug abuse and smuggling in the country,” he said.

    He also condoled the command over the killing of two of its personnel on Aug. 24, by suspected bandits.

    Also, Alhaji Abdul-Razak Bashir, the state Commandant of Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service, who received the seized donkey skin, lauded the customs for their sustained fight against smuggling of endangered species.

  • Exchange rate: Vehicles trapped in ports, importation dropped – Customs Agents lament

    Exchange rate: Vehicles trapped in ports, importation dropped – Customs Agents lament

    The Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) has said floating of the nation’s currency had caused a drop in vehicle importation in the nation’s ports.

    The agents also said that vehicles imported into the country were trapped at the ports due to the rise in exchange rate which skyrocketed vehicle duties.

    They disclosed these in separate interviews in Lagos State on Saturday.

    Alhaji Rilwan Amuni, Taskforce Chairman of ANLCA, told NAN that the floating of the naira was inevitable because government wanted a uniform rate.

    Amuni, however, urged the government to look into other levies paid at the ports.

    According to him, the challenges faced by customs agents at the ports were enormous because of the high dollar rate which hiked duties on vehicles to over 50 per cent.

    “The job we used to do after the advent of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in which we charged N1.4 million, is now like N2.2 million and this has resulted in vehicles being trapped in the ports.

    “Also, there has been a drop in importation because things are really biting hard,” he said.

    Amuni added that the development had affected goods already imported, noting that they had no choice but to clear at the current rate.

    He also urged government to look into the levy placed on used goods, adding that they are proposing for a dialogue with the Federal Government on ways to jettison this levy so that there would be a relief.

    “Some people are confusing the tax that was suspended recently with the issue of levy. It is not levy that they removed, it’s the Import Adjustment Tax that was supposed to have started.

    “We are appealing to government to remove the levy because what does a poor man derive when he buys a Corolla 2004 and pays duty and fine again? The only goods that are supposed to have levy are luxury goods .

    “Maybe you are a big man and you want to ride a yatch, helicopter, that is what they are supposed to levy not on used goods,” he said.

    Contributing, Mr Michael Imonitie, the Secretary, ANLCA TinCan chapter, said goods were not being cleared at the port due to the challenge.

    Imonitie disclosed that out of 100 importers only 20 were taking their goods out of the ports.

    According to him, this means that most goods will be incurring demurrage and overtime or even abandoned.

    “We all know that there is going to be a negative effect on clearance of vehicles at the port .

    “Since government announced uniform exchange rate, the exchange rate has risen from N422.3 to N589.55 and now N770.88 which is pure black market rate . The exchange rate of CBN is N756/N757, government was supposed to have given us a notice of either 60 or 90 days before implementation.

    “This is because a lot of importers have opened their Form M at the old exchange rate. I have not seen any importer that have done any new importation. Most of the goods in the port are old stock.

    “This means that the end cost of goods will be high. If I am being forced to pay the exchange rate twice of what I have paid before it means that the end users will be the ones to suffer it,” he said.

    He said that the burden was on importers and being felt by the clearing agents, the custom brokers, due to the jobs they do, and most of their clients do not have the difference to pay for the exchange rate.

    “Some goods have been lying down in the port, some agents are going extra mile to borrow money from individuals because banks have not opened the window for soft loan.

    “The hardship is almost 85 per cent of what government has imposed on us .

    “The importers are sourcing the money for clearing agents because they are the ones that pay the bill, they pay terminal operators, shipping lines, we only take our commission.

    “Now, the importers are complaining and we want them to channel their complaints through the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and the Chartered Institute of Commerce of Nigeria because their voices need to be heard,” he said.

  • Acting Customs C-G vows to remove barriers impeding trade processes

    Acting Customs C-G vows to remove barriers impeding trade processes

    Acting Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi has assured of his commitment to bringing an end to encumbrances experienced during trade.

    Adeniyi gave the assurance when former Comptroller-General of Customs, retired Col. Hameed Ali, handed over to him on Monday in Abuja.

    He said he would work towards simplifying trade processes, adding that encumbrances had impeded effective service delivery in the past.

    According to him, Customs under his administration will build on the legacies of his predecessor, who piloted affairs of the service for almost eight years.

    “We will build on the solid foundation you have laid for us and consolidate the things we are meeting on ground.

    “We are going to engage very critically with our stakeholders and use innovative technologies to drive everything,” he said.

    The acting comptroller-general said he would discharge his duties with utmost professionalism, fairness, transparency and integrity.

    “This is the beginning of a new era in the Nigeria Customs Service.

    “This call to duty signifies a great responsibility to serve our nation as a trade facilitator and enforcer of government policies.

    “It demands professionalism, integrity and highest ethical standards,” he said.

    The customs boss said the service had over the last seven years embarked on a transformation journey focused on reform, restructuring and revenue generation.

    He said he would prioritise efficiency in service delivery, adding that it was the bedrock of trade facilitation and revenue generation.

    He further said he would ensure career advancement, staff welfare, technological advancement, and collaboration with other government agencies and relevant stakeholders.

    “We will promote dialogue for more efficiency, effectiveness and ensure transparency, fairness, equity, integrity as well as consolidation of the modernisation process.

    On challenges, Adeniyi said “we face emerging trend like criminal networks that requires our utmost attention.

    “We must adapt to this changing landscape by collaborating with international partners, law enforcement agencies and customs administrations of other nations.”

    The acting comptroller of customs said he would work towards implementing the new Customs Act.

    He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his appointment, adding that he would be committed to the success of the service and the nation at large.

    Adeniyi said he would be fair to all, show respect to all and ensure that he left Customs better than he met it.

    On policies of his predecessor, Adeniyi said Ali’s effort at revamping the service was well appreciated, saying “you discharged your duties to the best of your ability.

    “Some of us think you are too hard. However, we cannot take away the fact that you are a firm leader,” he said.

    The acting comptroller said one of the major lessons he learnt from Ali was, “as a leader you need to be firm.”

    He said the service made progress in terms of processes, training and retraining among other things during Ali’s tenure.

    In his remarks, the former Customs comptroller-general said it was important for Customs officers to uphold professionalism and integrity.

    He said that “Customs is one of the most critical, professional and technical service in the world.

    “We have been able to build the service to be respected.

    “There were obstacles no doubt, but we did our best within our capacity to reposition it.

    “If there is any legacy I want to leave behind it is honour and integrity and we must put God first in whatever we do.”

    He further said, “Our policeman as humans is our conscience and it will tell you if the decision you want to take is right or wrong”.

    He said he was happy with the fact that Adeniyi was chosen as his successor, adding that he had the qualities to continue from where he stopped.

    The high point of the event was the presentation of gift items to the former comptroller-general.

    Adeniyi is the 14th indigenous comptroller-general of customs and 31st since its establishment in 1891.

    Read full speech of the new Customs boss below:

    EMBRACING A NEW ERA OF EXCELLENCE: ADDRESS BY ACTING COMPTROLLER-GENERAL BASHIR ADEWALE ADENIYI psc (+), MFR ON HIS RESUMPTION AS COMPTROLLER GENERAL OF NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE

    1. Today, we gather here to mark the beginning of a new era in the Nigeria Customs Service. I stand before you as the newly appointed Comptroller General, humbled and honoured by the trust placed in me by our esteemed President, His excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. This call to duty signifies a great responsibility, a responsibility to serve our nation as trade facilitators and enforcers of government policy. It is a delicate balancing act that demands professionalism, integrity, and the highest ethical standards.

    2. Over the past eight years, the Nigeria Customs Service has embarked on a journey of transformation, focused on reforms, restructuring, and revenue generation. We have witnessed critical adjustments to meet the evolving needs and strategic objectives of our Service. As beneficiaries and ambassadors of these reforms, many of us have played pivotal roles in training, retraining, and mentoring the future generation of Customs officers.

    3. Today, we stand at the precipice of an exciting future, one that builds upon the achievements of the past and takes us even further. Our administration is committed to adopting a bottom-up approach, where the needs of our dear nation take precedence over everything else. We will prioritize efficiency in service delivery as the bedrock of trade facilitation and revenue generation. No longer shall encumbrances impede trade; we shall dismantle obstacles and foster a new culture of consultations and compliance.

    4. In order to achieve our objectives, it is imperative that we bridge the current human resource gap within our ranks. We recognize the importance of capacity building and career advancement for our officers. The administration will work diligently to implement career advancement opportunities approved by the board, ensuring that competence remains the sole criterion for assigning responsibilities and measuring effectiveness. Our focus is on cultivating a highly skilled workforce that is equipped to face the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

    5. Staff welfare is of paramount importance to us. We acknowledge the harsh and hostile environment in which our officers and men are compelled to function. Therefore, we commit ourselves to prioritize the welfare and well-being of our personnel. By providing better remunerations, improved accommodation, life insurance, and quality healthcare, we aim to create an environment that supports and motivates our workforce. We understand that a well-motivated team is instrumental in achieving our aims and objectives.

    6. As we embark on this new journey, we recognize the need for collaboration and partnerships. We value the relationships we have built with our Partner Government Agencies and the private sector. These collaborations have been vital to our adoption of technology as a tool to enhance revenue generation and streamline processes. We will strengthen these partnerships and engage with stakeholders through revitalized platforms. By promoting dialogue, we can resolve disputes and advance mutually beneficial solutions that lead to more efficient and effective service. The Nigeria Customs Service will continue to treat its esteemed stakeholders as partners who have a stake in our success.

    7. Furthermore, this administration is firmly committed to fairness. We shall treat all stakeholders, traders, and officers alike with impartiality and respect. Our decisions and actions will be guided by principles of transparency and discipline. We understand that our conduct shapes the public’s perception of the Service, and we will strive to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical behaviour. Indiscipline will not be tolerated as we prioritize fairness and equity.

    8. My predecessor had taken significant steps towards Customs Modernization, and it is our duty to build on those gains. Staff welfare and capacity building have been revolutionized under the previous administration, with the provision of decent packages and the introduction of staff courses. This administration will build upon those gains to ensure the continuous growth and development of our workforce. All these efforts will be channelled towards ensuring that the real potentials of the Service are achieved.

    9. It is crucial for us to recognize the modern realities and challenges to Customs operations. In today’s interconnected and technologically advanced world, we face emerging threats that require our utmost attention. E-commerce, global supply chains, and transnational criminal networks pose challenges to our role as custodians of trade facilitation and enforcement. We must adapt to these changing landscapes, leveraging technology, intelligence-led operations, and effective risk management strategies. Collaboration with international partners, law enforcement agencies, and customs administrations of other nations will be vital in combating illicit trade and securing our national interests.

    10. Before I conclude, I want to acknowledge a significant milestone in our journey towards Customs modernization. Recently, the Nigeria Customs Service witnessed a remarkable achievement with the signing of the new Customs Act. This act marks a pivotal moment in our efforts to enhance trade facilitation, streamline procedures, and strengthen enforcement measures.

    11. The new Customs Act provides us with a robust legal framework that aligns with international best practices, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and compliance in our operations. It empowers us to effectively tackle emerging challenges, adapt to evolving trade dynamics, and safeguard our national interests. Under this act, we have the opportunity to introduce innovative measures that will further enhance our customs processes, such as the implementation of advanced risk management systems, the integration of cutting-edge technologies, and the simplification of trade procedures. These advancements will not only boost our revenue generation capabilities but also promote a conducive business environment that attracts investments and spurs economic growth.

    12. I assure you that we are fully committed to the successful implementation of the new Customs Act. We will work diligently to familiarize our officers and stakeholders with its provisions, ensuring its effective application across all our operations. Through comprehensive training programs and continuous engagement, we will create awareness and understanding of the act’s importance in achieving our shared goals.

    13. As we embrace this new era under the Customs Act, we must remember that its success relies on our collective efforts. I call upon all officers, personnel, stakeholders, and the public to embrace the spirit of compliance, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Together, we can unlock the full potential of our customs service and contribute to the prosperity of our beloved nation.

    14. I express my profound gratitude to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for the opportunity bestowed upon me to serve our great nation. I assure the President and his government of our unwavering commitment to the success of this administration. Together, with the dedicated men and women of the Nigeria Customs Service, we will pursue excellence and strive to surpass the expectations placed upon us.

    15. Let us forge ahead with determination, knowing that we have the tools, the vision, and the unwavering spirit to excel in our duties. May God bless the Nigeria Customs Service and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Thank you, and may God bless the Nigeria Customs Service and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

  • Customs begins destruction of seized items worth N12.8bn in Lagos

    Customs begins destruction of seized items worth N12.8bn in Lagos

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has begun the destruction of seized 96 containers of illicit, prohibited and expired pharmaceutical products.

    The destruction which is taking place at the Epe dump site, Lagos is supervised by ACG Enforcement, Inspection and Investigation, Adonye Dappa-Williams

    The products include Tramadol tablets, Codeine cough syrup, Diclofenac tablets and injections, Pramo sex, Yagra tablets, Black cobra tablets, and Sildenafil citrate tablets.

    Others are Chakapain extra tablets, Mebendazole tablets, Royal chest lung tablets, Dr. Ibramol tablets, Omeprazole capsule, Cotrimaxazole tablets, Diavita loperaminde capsules, Diarrhea stop and Chlorphanamene malfate capsules.

    The ACG noted that the items have all been condemned by courts of competent jurisdiction and also emphasized the harmful effects of the illicit items on society.

    He said, “The aforementioned items have all been condemned by courts of competent jurisdiction with a duty paid value of Twelve Billion, Eight Hundred and Ninety-five Million, Five Hundred and Seventy-One Thousand, Two Hundred and Eighty-Eight Naira (N12, 895, 571, 288.00).

    “As you all know, the harmful effects of these illicit items on our society cannot be overemphasized as it has destroyed countless lives of our youths, families and led to an upsurge in crime in our society.

    “Through this destruction, we are discouraging the importation and consumption of these items’’.

    He appreciated sister Agencies for their continuous collaboration and extended gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali (rtd) CFR for his purposeful leadership.

    “Let me also use this opportunity to thank our sister Agencies for their continuous collaboration and synergy in achieving this giant stride.

    “Finally, our gratitude goes to the Comptroller General of Customs Col. Hammed Ibrahim Ali (rtd) CFR whose purposeful leadership enabled us to achieve these feats,” he concluded.

  • Customs service speaks on reopening of Nigerian borders

    Customs service speaks on reopening of Nigerian borders

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has advised Nigerians not to believe the news making the rounds that borders in the country have been opened.

    NCS added that Nigerians should also disregard the purported viral video showing the  reopening of the border.

    The Service, through the National Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, described the video as malicious to mislead Nigerians.

    ALSO READ || FG approves re-opening of Seme border for vehicle importation

    Maiwada who debunked the rumour during a live show on the populous Human Rights Radio Brekete Family in Abuja on Tuesday morning, while urging Nigerians to always embrace authentic news emanating from the right channels.

    “For over a year, Idiroko and other selected approved borders are opened for legitimate trade. It is only the borders in the northeastern part of the country that are closed due to security issues. But major land borders in the South-West, North-West, and Ikang Border in the South South are all opened for legitimate trade,” he said.

    Speaking further, the PRO said that the activities of the Service are critical to national development considering its pivotal roles in the area of revenue generation, suppressing smuggling and trade facilitation.

    He stated that the Service, under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Col. Hameed Ali (rtd) CFR, has recorded various accomplishments over the years in the area of revenue generation, restructuring and reforms.

    “In the last couple of years, there were a lot of significant events that brought about a paradigm shift in the activities of the Nigeria Customs Service. First of all, we used to have a sixty-three-year-old law that was not in line with the reality of 21st Century Customs.

    “Today we have a brand new law called Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. A legal framework that will enhance our performance,” he stated.

    He added that many things have changed even within Customs, adding that Nigeria Customs Service recruitment has changed with transparent processes based on federal character principles.

    In the area of technology, CSC Maiwada said that the Service has succeeded in embracing a modern system in its processes and procedures, having realized the importance of automation – which according to him, has resulted in creating a new program called Fast-Track 2.0 for compliant traders, non-intrusive inspection among many other initiatives.

  • Nigerian Correctional Service gets new DCGs

    Nigerian Correctional Service gets new DCGs

    Six Assistant Controllers-General of Correction (ACGs) have been promoted to the rank of Deputy-Controllers General of Corrections (DCGs).

    The promotions were effected in the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Service Boards (CDCFIB)

    The Spokesman, Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) Assistant Controller of Corrections, Mr Abubakar Umar, stated this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.

    Umar named the promoted superior officers as Adbullahi Magaji, Ahmadu Adamu, Timothy Tinuoye, Marylaurene Melchizedek, Jerome Akinrujomu and Joseph Usendiah.

    He said the newly promoted DCGs were decorated with their new ranks by the Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, alongside their spouses.

    He reported Aregbesola as congratulating them on their new positions, urging them to redouble efforts to meet the mandates of the service.

    He reiterated that the Federal Government and generality of Nigerians expected them to bring their expertise and experiences to bear, to improve the fortunes of correctional administration in Nigeria.

    The promoted DCGs have since been deployed to head various directorates of the service.

    Section 1 (3a) of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act 2019 provides a minimum of eight Deputy Controllers-General of Corrections, one of whom shall be responsible for the newly established non-custodial service directorate.