The Murtala Muhammed Airport command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NSC) says it intercepted N10.51 billion worth of contraband at the Lagos airport in 2024.
The seizures includes dried Sea cucumber, dried Donkey male genitals, rifles, drones, military wares, tramadol and Canadian loud.
This is just as it states it remitted N180.75 billion into the federation account in the period under review.
The said sum was realized from duties collected from cargoes imported into the country through the airport in 2024.
Speaking at a press briefing at the command’s headquarters, the Customs Area Controller, Compt. Micheal Awe said the revenue generated was 99.89 per cent higher than the N90.43 billion generated in 2023.
According to Compt. Awe, the command intercepted contraband worth N10.51 billion in 2024.
“The Controller disclosed that the command achieved a significant milestone in revenue generation to the tune of N180.75 billion in 2024 as against N90.42 billion that was generated in 2023, representing a 99.89% increase.
“The revenue target for the year 2024 was N179.74 billion, while the command generated a total revenue of N180.7 billion, which shows an increase of N1.01 billion, representing a 0.56% increase for the entire year.
” This feat demonstrates our commitment to excellence and our constant dedication to enforcing government fiscal policies.”
He also mentioned that in the relentless pursuit of safeguarding the nation and protecting its citizens against illicit trade, the command made significant seizures of 225 pieces of Drones, 250 pieces of turtles, 1 package of pangolin skin, 21 packages of 225mg Tramadol Hydrochloride, 50 round 9mm Live Ammunition, 54 packages of Military Hardware.
Others are 46 packages of Dried Sea Cucumber, 3 packages of Dried Donkey Male Genitals, 55 pieces of Jojef Tomahawk Semi-Automatic Rifle, 50 packages of Dried Canadian Cannabis and 1 package of porcupine, thorns, and mineral stones.
“These seized items have a cumulative Duty-Paid Value (DPV) of N10.51billion. These seizures are a testament to the Command’s keen commitment to enforcing Customs laws and regulations.
He further mentioned that the command maintained an open-door policy, engaging with stakeholders, sister agencies, and the media to resolve issues of common interest.
This synergy, according to the Customs’ boss, has been instrumental in our success, and we appreciate the support and cooperation we have received from our stakeholders.
“Moving forward, the command will continue to innovate, strategize and block loopholes to ensure we meet our revenue targets and remain committed to facilitating trade while enforcing Customs laws and regulations and upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.”
