… As Comptroller Jaiyeoba Harps on Benefits of Compliance
The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has achieved a remarkable feat by collecting a total revenue of N489,614,095,022.15 in the first quarter of 2024.
This amount is significantly higher, over a hundred percent, than the N212.5b collected during the same period in 2023.
Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the command, expressed his appreciation to the officers and port stakeholders for their cooperation in achieving this commendable milestone.
He emphasized the need for sustained compliance from both the government and private sector stakeholders.
Jaiyeoba highlighted the critical role played by the Apapa Command in realizing the NCS’s annual target of N5.7tr in 2024.
He called for the collective effort of everyone involved to ensure the target is met.
The CAC emphasized that the command’s expected collection of almost N2 trillion in 2024 is achievable through strict adherence to the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023, government import/export prohibition lists, Common External Tariff, and Federal Government approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
In addition to expressing gratitude for the officers’ punctuality, diligence, and unwavering commitment to their duties, Jaiyeoba reminded them of the confidence placed in them by CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and the Customs Management.
He highlighted the multiple benefits that come with compliance to the rules, including the recently launched Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program.
The CAC described the first quarter collection as a significant step towards achieving the target and emphasized the importance of compliance for all port users.
He emphasized that compliance not only ensures efficiency but also brings about various advantages.
Jaiyeoba emphasized the importance of ongoing support from all stakeholders in Apapa Port to establish an efficient system where everyone adheres to the rules, resulting in smoother, seamless, and faster import/export cargo clearance.
By making honest declarations, declarants gain a significant advantage by building a credible reputation and enjoying the benefits that come with earned integrity.
This includes the possibility of fast-tracking processes and potentially becoming authorized economic operators (AEO).
Compliance-oriented attitudes save both time and money, as examination officers find it easier to process cargo that is less burdensome.
Additionally, other units of the service and sister government organizations do not need to flag such cargo for seizure or arrest of importers/exporters.
With compliant import/export, cargo is cleared on time, eliminating the need for penalty payments after demand notices, as no DN is issued.
Jaiyeoba expressed his commitment to engaging stakeholders at various levels on a weekly basis to maintain the momentum of achievements and build upon the gains from regular enlightenment of every member of the port community.
Looking ahead to the second quarter of 2024, Jaiyeoba is confident that revenue collection will improve, more trade will be facilitated through the port, and smuggling will be prevented under any circumstances.
