The Lagos Industrial Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has achieved an impressive feat by generating more than twenty billion naira in revenue during the first eight months of 2023, spanning from January to August. This remarkable accomplishment was revealed by the outgoing Customs Area Controller of the Command, Acting Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Queen Ogbudu, during a press briefing held on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.
Queen Ogbudu highlighted that despite the prevailing economic challenges and various obstacles faced by excise traders, the command has managed to elevate its revenue by a significant 38% compared to what was recorded in the same period in 2022.
In the words of the newly promoted Acting Assistant Controller-General of Customs, “In the year 2023, the Command has successfully generated a total revenue of ₦20,075,338,533.66, contrasting significantly with the ₦12,439,470,773.31 generated in the same timeframe last year. The Command is confidently optimistic about surpassing this year’s revenue target of ₦30 billion, which includes a monthly target of ₦2.5 billion, as we have already exceeded our expectations by almost ₦77 million in the first eight months.”
Queen Ogbudu attributed this steady and consistent rise in revenue to the diligence and unwavering commitment of the hardworking officers who tirelessly ensure the accurate collection of duties when due. She commended all officers and personnel for their dedicated efforts.
Queen Ogbudu noted the remarkable expansion in the Command’s operations, with the number of functional factories rising from nineteen to thirty-eight, producing a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Additionally, there are eleven nonfunctional factories under surveillance by the operation unit.
She emphasized that the increase in revenue collection was due to enhanced measures in preventing revenue leakage, a zero-tolerance approach towards duty evasion, and the meticulous application of due diligence, all while navigating a reduced volume of trade.
Regarding stakeholder engagement, Queen Ogbudu mentioned that the Command conducted numerous meetings with officers and personnel to guide them on the proper procedures. These encompassed everything from premises entry and product registration to utilizing e-payment platforms for duty payments, license renewals, bonds, and the timely settlement of duties.
The Acting Assistant Controller-General expressed gratitude to the officers and stakeholders for their unwavering support. She urged her colleagues to extend the same cooperation and dedication to her successor as she assumes her new role as the Zonal Coordinator in charge of Zone B Headquarters in Kaduna. She emphasized the importance of commitment, consistency, doggedness, and hard work in maintaining operational productivity and efficiency.
