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 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, above the revenue generated in the command from January to March 2019; which stood at N13,187,465,044.
Muhammed also disclosed that the command 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,” he said.
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.
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 sensitisation, provision of hand sanitisers, nose masks and well-equipped renovated clinic.