The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Area 1 Command, Port Harcourt, has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing its revenue collection target for 2024 by generating over N200 billion.
In a press release issued by the Command's Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Customs Oscar Ivara, the total revenue collected in 2024 amounted to N200,585,362,796, marking a substantial increase compared to the N116,289,470,576 collected in 2023. This represents a remarkable 72.41% growth, translating to an impressive surplus of N84,295,872,220.
Comptroller Mustapha Hashim, Customs Area Controller of Area 1 Command, attributed this success to the command's diligent efforts, including enhanced operational strategies, improved compliance with customs regulations, and strengthened enforcement activities. He highlighted the role of improved monitoring systems, increased patrols, and collaborative efforts with other law enforcement agencies in curbing smuggling activities and maximizing revenue collection.
While the command initially projected a revenue target of N230,277,162,651.82 for 2024, a shortfall of 13.04% was attributed to the Federal Government's food import waiver policy, which exempted essential food items like wheat, maize, and grains from import duties from July to December 2024 to mitigate the country's food crisis.
Despite this challenge, the command made significant strides in boosting exports, particularly agricultural products, aligning with the nation's economic diversification goals. In 2024, a total of 17,352,817 metric tons of cargo was exported, with an FOB value of $1,452,393,438.00 and NESS payments amounting to ₦2,900,883,557.
The command witnessed a total of 289 ship calls in 2024, handling a substantial volume of imports, including bulk cargoes such as wheat, frozen fish, salt, oil well equipment, and petroleum products.
Comptroller Hashim expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), BA Adeniyi MFR, and his management team for their unwavering support. He also acknowledged the valuable contributions of Zonal Coordinator, Customs Zone C, Port Harcourt, (ACG) SK Dangaladima, and all stakeholders operating within the port.
Looking ahead to 2025, Comptroller Hashim emphasized that the command will continue to prioritize revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations, and trade facilitation. By leveraging its focused approach, dedication, and strong partnerships, the command aims to achieve even greater success in the coming year.
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