The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Enugu/Anambra/Ebonyi Command has recorded an unprecedented revenue collection of ₦50.85 billion in 2024, a 50% increase compared to the ₦27.95 billion generated in 2023.
The Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Comfort Ukpanah, described the achievement as a major milestone, attributing it to the implementation of the Comptroller-General of Customs’ three policy pillars: Consultation, Innovation, and Consolidation.
Ukpannah in a press statement sent to our correspondent explained that strategic engagement with stakeholders, coupled with strict adherence to trade guidelines, played a significant role in boosting revenue.
Comptroller Ukpanah noted that the Command introduced enhanced monitoring systems to ensure compliance by stakeholders and officers, focusing on identifying and closing operational gaps.
This approach she said was also applied to excise factories and parcel post operations.
She revealed that intelligence sharing helped identify factories previously not under excise control, which were subsequently placed under round-the-clock surveillance to ensure appropriate duties were collected.
Despite global economic challenges, the Command demonstrated resilience and commitment, addressing revenue leakages and ensuring maximum collections. Ukpanah emphasized the Command’s readiness to meet and exceed its revenue targets in 2025, especially in light of the ₦49.74 trillion budget projection announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Command also strengthened relationships with other security agencies, regulatory bodies, and traditional institutions, which contributed to its success. Ukpanah commended the support received from these stakeholders, noting that intelligence sharing was a key factor in achieving the Command’s objectives.
Highlighting some of the year’s notable events, Ukpanah mentioned the visit of Mrs. Kikelomo Adewale Adeniyi, National Chairperson of the Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA). The Chairperson commissioned several projects, including an ultra-modern clinic serving officers and the surrounding community.
Ukpanah expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his leadership and support, while also praising the efforts of compliant traders. She, however, warned non-compliant operators to adhere to trade regulations or face the full weight of the law.
The CAC also appreciated the media for their partnership and professionalism in highlighting the Command’s activities, describing them as valuable allies in nation-building.
As the Command prepares for 2025, Ukpanah reaffirmed the dedication of her team to surpassing revenue targets while urging all stakeholders to work collaboratively to sustain the progress achieved.