By Sandra Chukwunyere
Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has generated
a total revenue of N847,058,879.30 in April 2025
The Customs Area Comptroller (CAC), Seme Area Command, Dr. Ben Oramaluogo, disclosed this in a press briefing on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at the ECOWAS Complex, Joint Border Post, Seme-Krake Border.
Comptroller Oramalugo said ; “this achievement reflects the command’s commitment to ensuring that all revenue leakages are blocked and every legitimate kobo due to the Federal Government is collected without compromise”
He further said that the Command facilitated the movement of 2,029 trucks, equivalent to over 88,036.15 metric tonnes of made-in-Nigeria goods, with a Free On Board (FOB) value of N16,900,987,331.10. The National Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) fees stood at N84,504,936.66.
This underscores the Command’s role as a critical trade enabler and contributor to national economic growth through efficient border management and support to local manufacturers.
“In the area of anti-smuggling operations, the Command recorded significant successes. On March 28, 2025, operatives intercepted a motorcyclist conveying un-customs goods along Owode Road. The goods included foreign coins worth N8,975,281.00. Similarly, on April 1, 2025, operatives intercepted a Mazda vehicle carrying smuggled items, including foreign coins.
” The Command also seized 553 parcels of cannabis sativa, 1,415 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 750 kegs of PMS, and other items worth N669,785,236.00. In a notable seizure, operatives intercepted a red Toyota Avensis conveying six canisters of corrosive mercury suspected to be Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), concealed beneath cartons of the Holy Qur’an.
“The Command has dissociated itself from any illegal activity, including the sale or auction of seized items via social media or unverified platforms. The public is advised to be wary of scammers impersonating officers of the Seme Area Command”
The Comptroller commended the gallant officers and men of the Seme Area Command for their steadfastness, professionalism, and integrity. He also thanked stakeholders and partners, including the media, for their continued support and collaboration.
The Command remains committed to its mandate of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and suppression of smuggling.
The Comptroller appealed to parents and guardians residing in border communities to counsel their wards and youths to refrain from engaging in smuggling activities.
“The command will continue to work diligently in the interest of national economic development and security, Oramalugo added.
