Comptroller Chidi Nwokorie Vows to Curb Smuggling, Boost Revenue
The Kebbi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its anti-smuggling operations, resulting in the seizure of contraband goods worth ₦84.2 million, including Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and other restricted items. The Command also reported a revenue generation of ₦13.3 million within six weeks, despite economic challenges and border closures.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Chidi Nwokorie, reaffirmed his commitment to enforcing customs regulations, curbing smuggling, and facilitating legitimate trade.
Key Seizures and Revenue Generation
Nwokorie highlighted the Command’s achievements, which included the interception of:
- 13,750 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS),
- 145 bales of second-hand clothing,
- 114 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each),
- 70 expired cartons of Biggy Vanilla Wafer Biscuit,
- 40 bags of foreign sugar (50kg each), and
- Other assorted contraband items.
The total value of the seized goods amounted to ₦84.2 million, underscoring the Command’s efforts to combat illegal trade activities.
Collaboration with Security Agencies
Nwokorie emphasized the importance of collaboration with other security agencies, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), National Security Adviser (NSA), and the Nigerian Army. He noted that such partnerships are critical to securing the nation’s borders and preventing the influx of prohibited goods.
Engagement with Border Communities
To enhance intelligence sharing and foster cooperation, Nwokorie engaged with border communities, traders, and sister agencies. He urged stakeholders to take advantage of trade facilitation initiatives introduced by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, aimed at promoting legitimate trade and economic growth.
Commitment to National Security and Economic Stability
Reaffirming his dedication to the Service and the nation, Nwokorie declared, “This is my mission and my bond. I will not fail the Service. I will not fail the nation.” He assured that the Command would sustain its crackdown on smuggling while creating a conducive environment for lawful trade activities.
The Kebbi Area Command’s recent successes reflect the NCS’s ongoing efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s borders, protect local industries, and boost revenue generation. As smuggling activities continue to pose a threat to the economy, the Command remains steadfast in its mission to uphold national security and economic stability.
