By Dipo Olowookere
The Seme Command of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has disclosed that it generated a total of N1.2 billion as revenue in the month of November and also made 99 seizures with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N82.9 million within the same period.
A statement signed by the command’s spokesman, Mr Taupyen Selchang, said the revenue generated in November 2016 exceeded the monthly revenue target by N59 million.
The Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Ardo Mulima, attributed the feat to the commitment of his management team, the cooperation and compliance level of the stakeholders and the host communities.
He also attributed the success recorded to the firm stance taken by the valuation unit in generating values and the resolve of the Republic of Benin to comply with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on August 4, 2016.
“This has actually translated to the higher revenue generated despite the numerous challenges that would have ordinarily hampered the revenue generated,” he said.
He reiterated that the command will continue to facilitate and provide a conducive and a level playing ground for every genuine trader that uses the Seme international land border as a corridor to the West African sub region.
While briefing his management team and patrol leaders, the Customs Area Controller highlighted that the posting of a proper officer to a particular duty post is predicated on the fact that the officer is conversant with the books of instructions that guide his modus operandi, hence, infraction observed will be traced to where it originated from and the culprit made to face the consequences of his action.
On the yuletide season just around the corner, he urged officers and men to ensure that the entire border is fortified against smuggling activities and cross border crimes.
The comptroller also warned against unprofessional use of arms among operational officers, stressing that arms should be properly handled when necessary.
He enjoined officers and men of the command to maintain a high level of discipline, professionalism and patriotism in the discharge of their responsibilities while observing the 7Cs as their operational guidelines.
Adedapo Adesanya