COMPT ADELAJA HITS THE GROUND RUNNING; MAKES N2.48 BILLION REVENUE & N165.3 MILLION SEIZURES IN TWO WEEKS
High profile seizures worth more than N165.3 million has been recorded by the Oyo/Osun Area command in just two weeks of Compt Adelaja’s assumption of office. Briefing newsmen in Ibadan today, he said most of the seizures were a product of intelligence.
Adelaja also disclosed that between February 1 and February 27, the command generated more than N2.48 billion , reflecting’the diligence and efficiency of our officers and men in ensuring compliance with extant customs laws and policies’
According to him, the command has significantly reduced tax evasion through the adoption of advanced technology, such as the deployment of improved data analytics, which noted has enabled the command to monitor trade flows and identify discrepancies effectively.
One of the core mandates of the Nigeria Customs Service is the suppression of smuggling, which undermines national security and economic growth. The Oyo/Osun Area Command has made significant strides in curbing smuggling activities, safeguarding the nation’s economy, and protecting local industries from the harmful effects of illicit trade.
Within 2 weeks of my assumption of duty, the Command has intercepted and seized several high-profile smuggling consignments, including the seizure of foreign Rice, Second-hand clothing, Premium Motor Spirit and used tyres. These seizures have a duty paid valued of ₦165,387,000.00k (One and sixty-five million, Three hundred and eighty-seven thousand naira only).
The interception and seizure of these prohibited and uncustomed items have prevented the illegal inflow of products that undermine local industries, particularly rice farmers and manufacturers in the region. On this note, the interception of prohibited foreign parboiled rice has led to the increase in production and consumption of the local rice in Oyo and Osun State respectively.
The Command in a bid to enhance border monitoring has intensified its surveillance of key entry points and transit routes within the Oyo/Osun region.Through a combination of physical inspections, surveillance technology, and intelligence sharing with other security agencies. The Command’s Anti-smuggling operations have been strengthened through increased collaboration with other security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Immigration Service. These partnerships have facilitated the exchange of intelligence and allowed the joint operations to dismantle smuggling networks operating in the region.
The Command will further prioritize the sensitization of the members of the public to raise awareness about the negative impact of smuggling on the economy and the well-being of the nation. Through media engagements and outreach programs, the Command would empower the local communities with the basic knowledge and tools required to report smuggling activities. This initiative would equip the members of the public about the activities of the Nigeria Customs Service in order to support the fight against illegal trade.
The economic downturn facing Nigeria has created a number of challenges for the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly in the areas of revenue collection and the prevention of smuggling. The low level of importation, fluctuating exchange rates, and inflation have all contributed to the economic challenges being faced. However, the Command has responded strategically to these challenges, ensuring that the Command remains resolute on its mission.
Despite the current economic constraints, the Oyo/Osun Area Command has demonstrated resilience and resourcefulness in adapting to the changing environment. Through efficient management of resources, improved coordination of officers, and strategic partnerships, the Command has mitigated the impact of the economic downturn.
Furthermore, by recognizing the importance of a collaborative approach, the Command has also further prioritized the engagement with excise factories and other stakeholders to ensure the continuity of operations and a steady flow of revenue. This approach also focused on building a strong relationship with the stakeholders and to ensure that the Command maintain trust and cooperation even in this challenging time.
In conclusion, the Oyo/Osun Area Command in the past 22 days has been nothing short of transformative, despite the economic downturn, the Command has recorded significant revenue milestones and has made commendable progress in its anti-smuggling efforts.
According to him, would like to appreciate the efforts of the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR fnipr psc+ and his Management Team in ensuring that the Officers and Men of the Command are well equipped to perform their primary duties.
He also seize the opportunity to appreciate His Excellency the Executive Governor of Oyo State Engineer. Seyi Abiodun Makinde for providing an enabling environment for Officers and men of Customs Area Command Oyo/Osun, to perform their duties within the state, the unwavering supports and cooperation enjoyed from the Traditional rulers would not be taken for granted and also, he sincerely appreciates the sister security Agencies within the states for their collaboration and commitment to ensuring succeess in performing their duties.
The distinguished members of the Press would not be left unmentioned, your resilience and commitment in the dissemination of information to the members of the Public about the activities of the Command is duly appreciated.
Finally, the Controller would like to state that the Command remains resolute in its commitment to contributing to the nation’s development, securing the borders, and ensuring that the Nigeria Customs Service continues to play a pivotal role in the nation’s economic growth.
“I officially assumed office as the Customs Area Controller of Oyo/Osun Area Command on 7th February 2025. Since taking over from my predecessor, Comptroller Dr. Ben Oramalugo, the Command has remained committed to its core mandates of revenue collection and anti-smuggling operations. These remarkable achievements have been made possible through the unwavering dedication, professionalism, and cooperation of the officers and men of the Command. I am highly impressed by their commitment and the level of support they have extended, which has significantly contributed to the successes recorded so far, despite the challenging economic downturn facing the nation”.