FIC Report (Oyo State) – The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has announced that, between January and December, 2024, it seized contraband goods, which worth an estimated N5, 377,759,260.09.
Equally, the command said, in the same space of time, it generated a record revenue of N82,193,426,334.10 in 2024, marking a 15.3% increase from the previous fiscal year.
The Area Controller, Dr.Ben Oramalugo, disclosed these while briefing news men on Friday, February 7th, at the command’s operational headquarters, Agodi Ibadan, the Capital City of Oyo State.
The news briefing has been called by the Command on the command’s achievements from January to December 2024, as well as early accomplishments for 2025.
Dr. Oramalugo highlighted that the revenue collected in January 2025 alone was N7,804,408,776.88, representing a 10.1% increase compared to January 2024.
The significant revenue milestones, according to him, were achieved through strategic initiatives aimed at increasing compliance and streamlining procedures, leveraging technology like the Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II).
According to him, over N500m Worth Of Fake Drugs and 49 Sacks Of Marijuana Seized By Oyo/Osun Customs Handed To NAFDAC, NDLEA, respectively. Announcing further, the Command’s Comptroller stated that Customs sold about 20,000 litre of petrol it had seized to the residents of Ibadan at N630 per litre.
He emphasised the command’s efforts in combatting smuggling, noting the substantial progress made in intercepting unlawful goods.
Dr. Oramalugo said that the duty paid value of seized items in 2024 reflected a staggering 1,091.14% increase compared to the previous year.
He disclosed that between December 20, 2024, and January 31, 2025, the command has seized goods worth N202,784,000.00, including foreign parboiled rice, used tires, and premium motor spirit, all of which posed risks to Nigeria’s economy.
“Today, I am pleased to report that we have made tremendous progress in each of these areas, and as such, today’s press brief will reflect on the Command’s scorecard for the period January to December 2024, as well as the milestones already reached in the year 2025.
“The revenue collection in 2024 was exceptional and respectable, generating N82,193,426,334.10 for the Federal Government.
“This achievement represents the hard work and dedication of the officers and men under my leadership, as well as our strong collaboration with stakeholders in the business community.
“Our efforts in combating smuggling have led to significant seizures, protecting local industries and ensuring the health and safety of our citizens. I express my heartfelt appreciation to all who contributed to our success,” he said.
In addition to enforcement actions, Dr. Oramalugo, noted the command has been actively engaging local communities to raise awareness about the dangers of smuggling and its negative impact on national development.
He said that, by fostering collaboration with the public, the command aimed to enhance its anti-smuggling efforts and protect local industries from substandard goods.
Dr. Oramalugo expressed gratitude to various stakeholders, including Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi for their unwavering support.
He extended appreciation to the officers and men of the Command for their professionalism and commitment, as well as to sister security agencies for their collaboration in successful operations.
Dr. Oramalugo, however, acknowledged the role of the business community and the media in supporting the command’s objectives, emphasising the importance of public awareness and cooperation in the fight against smuggling and the promotion of national development.
Signed
Moses Oyelade,
AD(I&PR), FIC Ibadan.
