By Usman Aliyu

The Orodje of Okpe community in Delta, Maj.-Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.), has pledged the support of the community for the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in tackling smuggling and promoting revenue compliance.

The Orodje, who is also Chairman of  the Delta Council of Traditional Rulers, gave the assurance when he received the Acting Customs Area Controller of Edo/Delta Area Command, DC Dominic Ortsen, and his team at his palace.

In a statement by ASC Peters Josu, the command’s Public Relations Officer on Friday in Benin, Mujakperuo acknowledged the critical role of the customs service in national development, particularly revenue generation, enforcement of trade regulations and prevention of smuggling.

The royal father noted that government revenue remained essential for public service delivery and development programmes.

He expressed concerns that some individuals and businesses benefited from government services without fulfilling their revenue obligations.

The traditional ruler urged communities to support customs officers, particularly those operating in border areas where smuggling undermined revenue collection and legitimate trade.

He, however, assured the delegation of the community’s cooperation with government institutions in carrying out their statutory responsibilities.

“Traditional institutions have an important role in promoting compliance with the law,” he said.

In his response, Ortsen thanked the traditional ruler and  people of Okpe for their support and warm reception.

The NCS boss said the command would strengthen engagement with traditional institutions, community leaders and other stakeholders.

This, he said, was to improve public awareness, encourage compliance and tackle smuggling.

The acting controller reaffirmed the command’s commitment to implementing the policies and transformation agenda of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

According to him, efforts are particularly meant to improve government revenue.

He urged traditional rulers, communities, transporters and other stakeholders to regard border security as a collective responsibility by providing credible and timely information on suspicious activities.

“Such cooperation will help curb smuggling, block revenue leakages and support national economic development,” Ortsen said. (NAN)

=========

Edited by Chioma Ugboma