Just as Western Marine Customs makes ₦118.6m Seizures between January and June 2023,

... the Command records ₦650.4m Seizures in two days of the Second half year

ZAINAB JUNAID

The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS) has recorded 26 incidents of seizures translating to a Duty Paid Value of One Hundred and Eighteen Million, Five hundred and eighty one thousand, three hundred and thirty five naira (₦118,581,335.00) in the Southwest Creeks and waterways between January and June 2023. 

A difference of One Hundred and Twenty Million, Four Hundred and Fifty-two Thousand, Nine Hundred and Sixty Five naira (₦120,452,965.00) Duty Paid Value from the same period under review in 2022.

This was contained in the Command's 2023 half year anti smuggling performance report made available by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, Magaji Mailafiya, during a Chat with our reporter, on Friday.

According to the report, the incidents of seizures made for 2023 between January and June was 26, while that of 2022 for the same period under review was 18 seizures with a DPV of Two hundred and thirty nine million, thirty four thousand, three hundred naira (₦239,034,300.00). 

However, with continous suppression of smuggling in the creeks and waterways as well as facilitation of legitimate trade by proper implementation of fiscal policies, Officers of the Command started second half of the year 2023 with greater efforts by unmasking some perpetrators of nefarious act who tried to import 14,015 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, weighing 7,728kg, which translated to a Duty Paid Value of Six Hundred and Eighteen Million, two hundred and forty thousand Naira (₦618,240,000.00) and 103 sacks containing 8240 loaves of substance suspected to be  Cannabis Sativa weighing 3811kg at a Duty Paid Value of Over ₦32,192,000.00 (Thirty two Million, One Hundred and Ninety Two Thousand naira.)

This development was earlier disclosed by the Ag. Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, on Monday August 7th 2023 while reading out some seizures made by officers of the Western Marine Command and Sector 2 border drill operatives, during his familization visit at Ogun 11 Command, Abeokuta.

To him, "Officers of the Federal Operatives Unit of Zone A intercepted 14,015 parcels of Cannabis Sativa weighing 7728kg translating to Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦618, 240,000, (Six Hundred and Eighteen million, two hundred and forty thousand naira) discharged from a boat at the creeks around Aja and Ijebu Ode Area. A total of 3 suspects and the items were handed over to Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on August 2, 2023 and are currently undergoing investigations.

"On Thursday August 3rd at about 04:00 hrs; a joint patrol team of officers intercepted a wooden boat with 2 Yamaha outboard engines (40 horsepower) each containing 103 sacks containing 8240 loaves of substance suspected to be  Cannabis Sativa weighing 3811kg at a Duty Paid Value of Over ₦32,192,000.00 (Thirty two Million, One Hundred and Ninety Two Thousand). These items are currently warehoused in western marine base in Lagos.

"This shows that the Service remain steadfast in delivering its statutory mandate and protecting the nation from the scourge of illicit drugs," the CGC had said. 

The Command's Area Controller, Compt. Odaudu Salefu, on his part warned earlier this year that the command will not rest on its oars to rid the creeks/waterways of illegal trade practices and will continue to enforce federal laws and policy restrictions where necessary. 

Acting Customs CG Pledges to Enhance Community Relations Strategies

...as Senate President Set up Committee to Investigate Customs Community Relationship in Katsina Axis

ZAINAB JUNAID

Just as the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio setup ad-hoc committee to investigate the intrigues behind the incessant attacks unleashed on the patrol teams of Kebbi and Katsina Area Commands of the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS) which led to the death of two officers and left one in serious injury, Ag. Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has pledged to prioritize community relations in border areas. 

Senator Godswill Akpabio had earlier set up a 7-man ad-hoc Committee during plenary session after Abdulaziz Yar’adua (APC, Katsina Central) moved a motion to study Customs Community relationship in Katsina axis, and also assigned Francis Fadahunsi (PDP, Osun Central), a retired Assistant Comptroller-General Customs to chair the committee.

While on a courtesy visit to the Ag. Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, at the Service headquarter in Abuja,  on Tuesday, 29 August 2023, the committee on Customs and Excise, led by Senator Francis Ade Fadahunsi MFR, relayed their findings to the CGC by submitting a progress report on their fact-finding mission.

In response, the Ag. CGC welcomed their show of commitment to helping Customs enhance its policy of improving border relationship and maintained that the Service, under his leadership, will continue to prioritize community relations in border areas to re-smoothen the discharge of the Service's constitutional mandates. 

His words, “We can't afford to antagonize any member of our host community. Because at the end of the day, what use is the facilitation of trade and the revenue we are generating if the communities are dead? So whatever we do, we do it in the interest of the community; that's the community that we're serving.”

He said that the Nigeria Customs Service will soon implement a new pattern of community engagement with Nigerians through initiating strategic corporate social responsibility programmes, which, according to him, will prioritize their social stability, welfare and well-being in all ramifications.

The Customs Boss, who recalled how the Service has been sustaining a Secondary School in Idiroko for nearly three decades now, said, “In terms of being responsive to the needs of citizens, we will be requesting the kind support and understanding of the National Assembly to carry out such meaningful projects and reserve some slots of employment to the members of our host communities.”

The Ag. Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, had often urged community members to see customs operatives as fellow Nigerians carrying out national duty within their communities.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Senate ad-hoc Committee on Customs and Excise, Senator Francis Ade Fadahunsi MFR, Senator Fadahunsi MFR, who commended the Acting Comptroller General's approach towards improving community relations and pledged that his committee members would continue to maintain a cordial working relationship with the Service, which will pave the way to achieving its target.

The delegation of the committee who attended the meeting were Shuaib Salisu (Ogun Central), Kawu Sumaila (Kano South), Tony Nwoye (Anambra North), Suleiman Sadiq (Kwara North), Abdulaziz Yar’adua (Katsina Central) and Adeola Olamilekan (Ogun Central).

VIN Valuation :Auto Importers Should Inculcate Transparency in Declaration, says Comptroller Yusuf

ZAINAB JUNAID 

Comptroller Saidu Abba Yusuf, Customs Area Controller of Ports Terminal Multiservices Limited has  urged importers of vehicles and their agents to imbibe transparency while making declarations for their imported vehicles.

This was contained in a release made available by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, CSC Yakubu Muhammed.

According to the statement, CAC Yusuf reiterated an earlier position held on Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Valuation process by the Nigeria Customs Service headquarters that the VIN Valuation Process remains fully operational and effective. 

This he did at a stakeholders sensitization meeting held on Wednesday August 29, 2023 at the Command on Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) valuation to dispelled the rumour that the VIN method has been cancelled. 

He added that the trim numbers are critical in identifying distinct versions or tiers within a specific car model. "They delineate varying configurations, features, and levels of equipment associated different models, 

"The trim of vehicles are not same for all kinds while urging declarants to have their transaction values. Some declarants are not being transparent because they go inputing what they think is the lowest base value which necessitates interventions like demand notice and alerts.

They ought to apply invoice and transaction values as a way of promoting transparency and building integrity in the trade process of vehicle clearance," he said. 

Comptroller Yusuf added that Section 24 Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023 provides for advance ruling for stakehokders to submit to the NCS before  a transaction and the ruling will be binding on the service and the importer or agent. This according to the Controller is a unique trade facilitation method provided for by the new law

The CAC who described the meeting as being in line with Customs act law as customs stakeholders partnership can be found in section 29 NCSA 2023, said "meetings like this is meant to rub minds, identify challenges and jointly work out solutions on how best to resolve the challenges. This meeting is in conjunction with WCO and WTO trade facilitation thrusts which encourage consultations."

He reminded the stakeholders that the use of code 846 for clearing of non standard VIN has been further modified to reduce human contact through what he called e-846. This saves time and makes trade easier. 

"I must commend the system because the reduction of human contact is very effective and beneficial to all as it saves time. I personally monitor electronically from my office and can confirm that my officers are implementing it diligently. 

"Where ever you are experiencing delay in the process under my command, please draw my attention to it. My doors are open and will be more open to all of you. The help desk headed by the Command's Public Relations Officer is active and responding to all inquiries online and in real time"  Comptroller Yusuf said. 

MACI Condemns Incessant Attacks on Customs Operatives

... Calls for Special Incentives for Patrol Officers

ZAINAB JUNAID

Following the incessant attacks unleashed on the patrol teams of Kebbi and Katsina Area Commands of the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS) which led to the death of two officers of the Command and left one in serious injury, the Media Anti-Corruption Initiative (MACI) has condemned the incidents and called for special incentives to be made available for all patrol officers.

The group, in a statement signed by the Chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT), Captain Adamu Mshelia and the Secretary, Mr. Funso Olojo, the Non- Governmental Organization (NGO), expressed sadness over the spate of the attacks, which came in quick succession, with serious casualties recorded

According to the Statement, the group viewed the incident as one attack too many. 

It partly reads, "We condemn in totality the attacks on Customs operatives who are on their legitimate duties, especially the two attacks that occurred last week in Kebbi State where two officers lost their lives and one operative fatally wounded in Katsina State." 

MACI sent its condolences to the grieving Comptroller General of Customs, Wale Adeniyi, and the entire service as well as the family of the deceased.

"We commiserate with the Customs management and the families of the victims, and pray for an end to such unprovoked attacks .

The NGO observed  that these incessant attacks call for proactive approach from the Federal Government and the Customs management. 

"We call on government to arm the enforcement unit of Customs with sophisticated weapons, especially in these days of militancy in volatile parts of the country. 

"We believe Customs operatives are not only threat to smugglers but to other criminal elements who may want to sneak in firearms or move around unchallenged.

"This calls for tactical planning on the part of the enforcement unit in order to have advantages over their attackers. 

"They must always be on the alert and ensure that they are not few in number.

"Where they are at a checkpoint, some operatives should be in hiding, 100 percent on the alert to respond rapidly to attacks on the officers manning the road.

"Furthermore, we recommend special incentives for these operatives as well as a comprehensive insurance package to serve as motivation for their selfless but dangerous service to their fatherland.

"It is imperative to arm these operatives on the special mission with sophisticated weapons to match the equally deadly arms in the hands of these criminals.

"By this, these officers would not be sitting ducks for the criminals they are meant to haunt down who more often than not, have more sophisticated weapons " the group advised.

Customs, NPA Synergies to Streamline Seaports Operations in the Country

 Customs, NPA Synergies to Streamline Seaports Operations in the Country

ZAINAB JUNAID

The Ag. Comptroller-General of  Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has pledged commitment to enhance the output of designated export processing terminals.

The Customs Boss made this promise on Monday, 28th August, 2023, at his Office, while receiving the Managing Director of Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Muhammad Bello Koko, and his entourage on a courtesy visit.

The Ag. CGC, who spoke on the recent developments at Lilypond, told Mr. Koko that the two organizations need to synergize to streamline the operations of the nation's seaports.

“We need to form a joint team that will engage other Government Agencies to refine the activities of exporting goods through the installation of trackers to avoid delays in the diversion of goods - and I want to assure you that the Management Team of the Nigeria Customs Service will work with you.” Ag. CGC said.

Speaking earlier, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Muhammad Bello Koko, congratulated the Ag. CGC, and sought his support to upgrade facilities at the Ikorodu Lighter Terminal and to decongest Lagos ports.

Mr. Koko assured the CGC that once Lagos Ports are decongested, the facilities will attract higher patronage. He also called for synergy among the various Customs Units to enhance speedy passage of cleared consignment at the terminal.

The NPA Boss said, “We thank you so much for supporting the Committee that was set up. Members of this Committee have gone round the country.”

He expressed worries over the congestion at the Port, which, according to him, makes it difficult for the Authority to operate properly.

Nigeria Customs Service Clarifies Misleading Report on Vehicle Identification Number

(VIN) Valuation Process 

ZAINAB JUNAID

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has on Monday August 28, 2023, condemned and regarded as misleading a report on the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Valuation process which was on the social media recently.

The Service spokesman, CSC Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada, in a statement made available to Journslists confirmed that a circular about the examination and release of used vehicles has highlighted by the author actually exist, but maintained that the accurate context of the circular was overlooked by the author. 

To him,  "The VIN Valuation Process remains fully operational and effective. The mentioned circular specifically pertains to imported used vehicles equipped with trim numbers. These trim numbers are critical in identifying distinct versions or tiers within a specific car model. They delineate varying configurations, features, and levels of equipment associated with the model. Furthermore, different trim levels offer diverse technological advancements, interior and exterior features, and, occasionally, distinct engine options.  

"For instance, a car model could feature trim levels such as "Base", "Sport", "Luxury", and "Premium. Each of these trim levels might present differing combinations of attributes, such as premium leather seats, advanced infotainment systems, upgraded wheels, and enhanced safety features, among other enhancements. This results in an elevated value for the vehicle compared to the base model.  

"To ensure fairness and accuracy, the NCS mandates that imported used vehicles with trim numbers undergo valuation at the Valuation Seat after a thorough examination. This process aims to establish the vehicle's appropriate and precise Customs value. 

"The NCS urges the general public to dismiss the misleading report and encourages individuals to engage with the various Customs Formations across the nation for any additional clarification or information they may require," he maintained. 

Tin Can Customs Arrests two Suspects in connection with two Containers having Contradicting Bill of Laden

...Seize Frozen Products on False Declaration

ZAINAB JUNAID

Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS) has arrested a freight forwarder, Mr. Boniface Ike and one other Suspect on Tuesday, 22 August 2023 at about 14:00hrs and Wednesday, 23 August 2023 at about 14:00 hours, in Connection with importation of 2X40ft containers which have contradicting Blll of Lading.

Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Adekunle Oloyede disclosed this at a press briefing held at the Command today stating that contrary to the Bill of Lading tendered by the suspects, physical examination conducted on their containers upon arrival at the enforcement station by Customs Intelligence Operatives,Customs Police, Examination Officers and Enforcement Officers of the Terminal revealed that illicit dangerous drugs (unregistered regulated pharmaceutical products) are what was concealed in the containers.

Comptroller Oloyede explained that the unregistered pharmaceutical products intercepted are regulated products by National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control  (NAFDAC) and didn't have the required permits and certificates for importation in which the documents are to ascertain the safety of the products to Nigerians, hence these illicit dangerous drugs were concealed.

After cross examination, it was discovered that the two containers with numbers MRSU592397/0 and MRKU 553432/1, and Bill of Lading number 227578945 and 227898171 respectively, which listed items laden to include one thousand and Sixteen (1,016) and one thousand and twenty one (1,021) packages containing Electrical Goods Ceiling Fan 36 Jewel (Cooper) and Chilly Cutters( Stainless Steel+Plastic) was found to concealed the followings - 

1.Five (5) cartons of Timaking 120 Tapentadol (Tramadol) Hydrochloride Carisoprodol capsule. Each carton contains 50 rolls, each rolls contains 5 packets, each packet 200 tablets.

2. Eighty-Four (84) cartons of Gastro Resistant Omeprazole capsule BP 200mg. Each carton contains 50 packets, each packet contains 10 capsules,

3. Eight Hundred and Seventy-Six (876) cartons of CSMIX cough syrup containing Codeine (each bottle 100ml). Each carton contains 200 bottles.

4. Fifty (50) cartons of Manual Grater Machine - 70 pieces per carton as means of concealment

5. One (1) carton of Ceiling Fan as a means of concealment.

The Second Container  with number MRKU 553432/1, concealed-

i.Ten (10) cartons of Super Royal 225 (Tramadol). Each carton contains 50 rolls, each roll contains 10 packets, each packet 10 tablets

2. One Hundred and five (105) cartons of Omeprazole Capsule BP 200mg. Each carton contains 50 packets, each packet xontains 10 capsules

3. Seven Hundred and fifty four (754) caryons of Barcadin with Codeine (each bottle 100ml). Eaxh carton contains 200 Bottles.

4. Fifty (50) cartons of Manual Grater Machine -70 pieces per carton as means of concealment.

5. One carton of Compo Ceiling Fan as means  of concealment.

One of the suspects (Mr. Boniface Ike) who pleaded guilty and claimed owner of the two trucks 'Shot himself in the leg' by trying to buy off some officers at the enforcement units.

According to the CAC, "Mr Boniface Ike accepted that he owns the two containers but sought to buy his way out by offering gratification of ₦50, 000, 000 (Fifty Million Naira only), an equivalent of $54, 330 at the current exchange rate of ₦920 to OC Enforcement DG GI Aliyu and Team Manager CIU AC H Abubakar for the release of the containers and his freedom.

"With this development, the Officers played along following my instructions and decided to grant his request. The money was collected and kept in safe custody at the enforcement unit. This will be tendered as exhibit. Meanwhile, the suspects, containers and cash exhibit will be handed over to the agencies that are in charge of regulation of such importation as soon as the Service direct and the Service may decide to prosecute them according to the Service Act, Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023."

However in a related development, another routine examination carried out at Tincan Island Container Terminal on Container No. TTNU 804678/9 with declaration lodged on SGD CNo: 70754 of 24/08/2023, revealed that the Container concealed Frozen Poultry Products inside Tangerines.

"The Single Goods Declaration (SGD) other supporting documents (Form M and PAAR) stated Tangerines which as used to conceal the frozen poultry products actually imported. The goods were falsely declared as they are Import Prohibition (Trade), the Container has been seized for the contravention of Section 233 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act (2023)," CAC Oloyede Said.

Following the siezed items, the CAC reiterated that the Command will never be part of a nefarious acts that will jeopardize the safety and lives of the citizens of Nigeria and warned that fraudulent Importers or agents who refused to desist from this nefarious will be prosecuted accordingly.

"The persistent fraudulent nature of Importers and Agents drives us to be more innovative in putting methods and measures to combat smuggling activities, ensure no leakage of revenue to the Government and safety of Nigerians," the Comptroller said.