The Ogun II Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it generated N14.650 billion from excise duty between January and August, 2023.
The outgone Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu made this known after handing over leadership of the Command to the newly redeployed Controller, Comptroller Adebisi Alade at the Command’s headquarters on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.
Giving a breakdown of the revenue collection, Compt. Shuaibu said: “The command generated N2.259 billion in January, N1.301 billion in February; N2.336 billion in March, N1.596 billion in April and N1.766 billion in May. “In June, N898 million was generated while N1.857 billion and N2.634 billion were generated in July and August, 2023.”
Shuaibu noted that the feat was achieved because of stakeholders paid their excise duties as at when due despite the economic realities.
He explained: “Today marks another milestone in our career. This meeting cannot be possible without the contribution of our stakeholders and officers. Our contribution since we assumed leadership are modest. It’s not easy to collect revenue and we have deep respect and regard for our stakeholders.
“However, inspite of the economic realities you have paid your duty as at when it’s time and you pay accordingly. I am elated to tell you that you have done well eventhough the business environment is not easy, you pay taxes to state, local government and Customs. The template is set, no need for fear and anxiety especially with officers and stakeholders so if we can’t it, we should maintain status quo”.
On his part, the newly redeployed Controller, Compt. Alade promised to follow the footstep of his predecessor to take the command to greater height.
According to him, trade facilitation, production, ease of doing business, as well as the ease of movement will be prioritise under his leadership; adding that he will reward hardworking officers.
He said: “As long that there is production and for Naira to rise, there must be production, we are here to help you so production and trade are related. We know the law and we won’t violate it but we will administer the law to facilitate trade.
“As long there is production, Naira will rise. I promise to do my best and you should expect the best from you.
Compt. Alade continued: “I promise you amiable, considerate and welfarist leadership. I expect absolute loyalty. Also, revenue target is a fear and for the first time, revenue target is before me and this target is for all of us. I have the carrot and stick and I believe there are lot of benefits in using the carrot. I promise able leadership.
“The revenue must not drop. Please let’s do our work deligently because this is a revenue command and when we do our work diligently in Excise command, revenue will come. So, let’s work harder so that our revenue will beat that of the former Comptroller”.
Hybrid News reports that the Ogun II command is saddled with the responsibilities of enforcing and regulating all Excise (industries under Excise control), Free Trade Zone and Parcel Post related activities in Ogun State.
