Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The Seme Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has generated N3.5 billion in revenue between January and May 2025, while facilitating exports valued at N47 billion.
Speaking during a working visit by Zonal Coordinator of Zone A, ACG Charles Orbih, the command’s controller, Dr. Benedict Oramalugo, revealed that 220,300 metric tonnes of goods were exported through the border within the period.
He also disclosed that anti-smuggling operations led to the seizure of items including expired pharmaceuticals, marijuana, and corrosive mercury, valued at N889 million, which were handed over to relevant security agencies.
Despite these strides, Oramalugo lamented several operational challenges affecting the command’s efficiency. “We are battling a seven-year power outage, terrible roads, non-functional scanning equipment, and porous borders,” he said.
To address these issues, the command has intensified advocacy for infrastructure upgrades and called for stronger partnerships with local communities and sister agencies.
Orbih commended the command’s leadership for initiatives such as the renovation of the COWA building and the upgrading of the sports complex and officers’ mess, saying, “These projects reflect the vision of the Comptroller-General, Adewale Adeniyi, built on consolidation, collaboration, and innovation.”
ACG Orbih noted that Zone A contributed 79.8 percent of the NCS’s N1.3 trillion revenue in Q1 2025 and reaffirmed the service’s commitment to modernisation.
“Through platforms like the Advance Ruling System, Authorised Economic Operators, and B’Odogwu, we are transforming Customs operations,” he said.
He highlighted the service’s 2025 strategy, including trade facilitation, enhanced risk management, transparency, and stakeholder engagement under the AfCFTA framework.
Charging officers to uphold professionalism, he said, “The bar has been set higher for Zone A. We must innovate and adapt to meet the evolving demands of our nation’s economy and security.”
