Oyo/Osun Customs Command Records Historic 15% Surge in Revenue Collection
Nifemi Coker
The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a landmark achievement in revenue collection and anti-smuggling operations, setting new records in 2024 despite existing economic challenges.
The outgoing Customs Area Controller, Dr. Ben Oramalugo, disclosed these milestones in a press briefing, highlighting the Command’s commitment to trade facilitation, revenue generation, and national security.
The Command generated an unprecedented ₦82.19 billion in 2024, surpassing the ₦71.29 billion collected in 2023 by 15.3%. This revenue surge, the highest since the Command’s inception, underscores the effectiveness of strategic enforcement measures and improved compliance by stakeholders.
According to Dr. Oramalugo, the increase was achieved despite economic fluctuations and policy changes aimed at stabilizing Nigeria’s economy. He attributed this success to the dedication of officers under his leadership, enhanced collaboration with the business community, and the efficient deployment of the Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II).
Furthermore, in January 2025 alone, the Command collected ₦7.8 billion, reflecting a 10.1% increase compared to the ₦7.08 billion collected in the same period in 2023. The Controller emphasized that this achievement was a direct result of streamlined operational procedures and proactive engagement with compliant traders.
Beyond revenue collection, the Oyo/Osun Command intensified its anti-smuggling drive in 2024, seizing contraband goods worth ₦5.38 billion in duty-paid value. This represents a staggering 1,091.14% increase compared to the ₦451.48 million recorded in 2023.
Highlighting the Command’s efforts between December 20, 2024, and January 31, 2025, Dr. Oramalugo revealed that smuggled goods worth ₦202.78 million were intercepted. The confiscated items included:
170 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each) – ₦14.96 million
1,667 pieces of used tyres – ₦160.03 million
32 bales and 4 sacks of used clothes – ₦23.04 million and ₦2.88 million respectively
2 sacks of used shoes – ₦1.08 million
40 kegs (25 liters each) of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) – ₦792,000
The Customs boss reaffirmed that these seizures were necessary to protect local industries from unfair competition, safeguard national security, and ensure consumer safety. Smuggled items, especially used tyres and clothing, pose significant risks to public health and safety, while illegal importation of PMS undermines government regulations on fuel distribution.
Recognizing the importance of stakeholder engagement, the Command intensified awareness campaigns within local communities, educating citizens on the dangers of smuggling and its adverse effects on Nigeria’s economic growth.
Additionally, the Command worked closely with sister security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Air Force, and the Police. These collaborations played a crucial role in securing Nigeria’s borders and enhancing enforcement operations.
Dr. Oramalugo expressed his gratitude to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for his continuous support. He also extended appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, BA Adeniyi, and the entire NCS management for their backing.
He commended the officers and men of the Oyo/Osun Command for their professionalism and commitment, as well as the business community for their cooperation in ensuring compliance with trade regulations. He further acknowledged the media’s role in creating awareness and ensuring public understanding of the Command’s operations.
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