Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Nigeria Customs Service, Port Harcourt Port Area I Command in Rivers State, says it generated the sum of N16,180,827,894.00 in the first quarter of 2020.
Customs Controller, Port Harcourt Area I, Auwal Muhammed, said the figure indicated a surplus of N2,993,362,850.00, above the revenue generated in the command from January to march 2019; which stood at N13,187,465,044.00.
Muhammed also disclosed that the command also made seizures of five containers, with duty paid value of N50 million, within the period under review.
He attributed the success recorded by the command policy of ensuring that all agents made proper declaration of goods brought in through the port.
“The difference in the revenue was as a result of ensuring that importers were made to pay the correct duty and all the clearance procedures were strictly complied with.
“The placing of committed and capable officers in conducting 100 percent physical examination played a significant role during cargo clearance, as well as engaging all relevant stakeholders on regular interactive sessions.”
Muhammed also commended the conducts of Licensed Customs Agents and the shipping line at the seaport, while warning stakeholders against contravening trade regulations as such will incur the full wrath of the law.
He warned smugglers to steer clear of the Port, as the command will not tolerate any action or inaction capable of jeopardising the fiscal policies of government, national security and seamless cargo documentation and clearance at the port.
One dies in smugglers attack on Nigeria Customs personnel
“The command made a seizure of 2x20ft container declared as hand tools, however, on examination, it was discovered to also contain candle wax and tomato paste in retail packs;
“The consignment was seized and forfeited to the federal government of Nigeria with a duty paid value of N30, 743, 550.
“Another seizure of 3x20ft containers of vegetable oils and margarines were made. The consignment which were declared as spraying pump for insecticide, has a duty paid value of N19, 559, 350,00.”
The Nigeria Customs Service, Port Harcourt Port Area I Command boss also said steps have been taken to curtail the spread of COVID-19 through sensitization, provision of hand sanitizers, nose masks and well equipped renovated clinic.