By Martha Agas

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has tasked the newly confirmed Deputy Comptroller-Generals (DCG) and Assistant Comptroller-Generals (ACG) on mentoring the service’s personnel.

Adeniyi made the call during the investiture of the officers at the service headquarters on Friday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NCS’s Board, during its 60th regular meeting on Tuesday, confirmed the appointment of two DCGs and five ACGs to join the management team.

The appointments were made in response to the statutory retirement of senior officers and are fully aligned with the Federal Character Policy, as outlined in Section 14(4) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

The C-G said that the newly decorated officers have shown competence, diligence, and commitment in the discharge of their duties and other responsibilities assigned to them.

According to Adeniyi, the qualities demonstrate their exceptional ability to mentor younger officers in the service.

“So there is going to be a rich depth of people that can give you (NCS personnel) inspiration for what you do.

“They will provide mentorship and guidance for the younger generation of officers that are coming.

“We are in a period when we should begin to identify, nurture, and cultivate those that will form the future leadership of the Nigerian Customs Service, and we must therefore put our emphasis on merit,” he said.

He urged the newly promoted officers not to relent in their efforts to perform their constitutional duties, as their new positions come with higher obligations and responsibilities.

He expressed confidence that, due to their pedigrees and selection on merit, they will effectively carry out the critical roles of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and the suppression of smuggling.

“It is expected that they will justify the confidence that we have reposed in them.

“Therefore, the virtues of commitment, of dedication, of discipline, and, most importantly, exemplary conduct, are expected from all of you.

“I want you to continue to use merit or to depend on merit to drive your operations,” he said.

The C-G thanked the spouses of the officers for their support in enabling the officers to accomplish great feats in the service.

He urged them to offer more support and understanding, as the new responsibilities would require greater commitment.

Responding on behalf of the newly decorated officers, DCG Olaniyi Alajogun assured the C-G of their commitment to duties.

He acknowledged the CGs fairness and equity in the various appointments, particularly adhering to seniority and reflecting federal character.

NAN reports that the senior officers decorated were Olaniyi Alajogun, DCG in charge of Enforcement, Investigation, and Inspection; and Kikelomo Adeola, DCG to head the new Information Communication Technology Modernisation unit.

Timi Bomodi, ACG to oversee Enforcement Investigation and Inspection; Babatunde Makinde, ACG in charge of Human Resources and Development.

Others are Odaudu Salefu, ACG, in charge of Doctrine and Coordination at the Training and Doctrine Command, and Isah Umar, ACG, in charge of Headquarters. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Peter Amine

By Okeoghene Akubuike

The Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) says it will henceforth issue Outline Business Case (OBC) Certificate of Compliance and Full Business Case (FBC) Certificate of Compliance within seven days.

This follows a directive from President Bola Tinubu to the commission’s Director General, Dr Jobson Ewalefoh, “to accelerate investment in national infrastructure through innovative mobilisation of private-sector funding.”

In a statement signed by Ifeanyi Nwoko, Acting Head of Media and Publicity, ICRC, in Abuja on Monday, the commission said it had streamlined its approval processes to issue the certificates.

Nwoko said that the move aimed to accelerate the turnaround time for approvals by the commission.

He quoted Ewalefoh as saying, “in line with President Tinubu’s charge and the Renewed Hope Agenda, we have updated our approval processes.

“This process aims to issue either the OBC or FBC to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) that meet the requirements within seven days.

“This is part of the current administration’s efforts to accelerate infrastructure development, bridge infrastructure gaps, and stimulate the economy through private sector investment in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives.”

He said by streamlining its processes, the commission was not compromising its stringent approval steps or key requirements.

“Therefore, only business cases that are viable, bankable, offer value for money, and meet all other requirements will be approved.

“The ICRC cannot achieve this alone; I urge all chief executives of MDAs to match our momentum and align with the President’s charge to accelerate infrastructure development.

“This will ensure that PPP projects are delivered within record time without being stalled.

“The commission is ready to partner and collaborate with all MDAs to achieve this.”

Nwoko said the ICRC was established to regulate the Federal Government’s PPP initiatives, address Nigeria’s physical infrastructure deficit and promote economic development.

The statement said an FBC is a comprehensive document outlining the detailed investment plan, capital and operating costs, benefits, risks framework, and negotiated financials associated with a PPP project.

It is prepared and submitted by the MDA to obtain the Federal Executive Council’s (FEC) approval, as required by Section 2(2) of the ICRC Establishment Act.

“This formed the basis for secure funding, approvals, or partnerships.

“In contrast, the OBC is less detailed than the FBC but provides a determination of project viability and bankability, offering a solid foundation for the project’s overall strategy and direction.”(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

By Rukayat Moisemhe

Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria (BRIPAN) has partnered the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to empower practitioners with the international best practices on business insolvency and asset management recovery.

Both parties at an engagement on Monday in Lagos, stressed the need to jointly build body of knowledge in business and non performing loan recoveries.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that BRIPAN is a body of professionals responsible for business recovery and insolvency for financially troubled individuals and businesses.

AMCON is saddled with the statutory responsibility amongst others of recovering the non-performing loan hitherto disbursed by eligible financial institutions to their customers.

Mr Chimezie Ihekweazu, President, BRIPAN, noted that the newly appointed AMCON Managing Director’s history, experience and achievements in the corporate world within and outside the country was valuable in shaping the dynamics of the corporation.

Ihekweazu stated that BRIPAN special interest in insolvency practice and business recovery made it important to maintain the amiable working relationship it had with AMCON.

He added that the practice of insolvency which extended to different branches meant that business relationship with the credit sector must be carefully managed to engender business survival.

“BRIPAN has committed building a high level of professional standing among its members.

“We have supported the Companies and Allied Matters Act, the insolvency bill among others and enjoyed institutional relationship with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Securities and Exchange Commission, among others.

“Based on our practical experiences in insolvency, we have outlined trainings to give proper guidance on advance knowledge for practitioners.

“It is our utmost hope that by this engagement, our business relationship would continue to be built upon for the advancement of business and asset management recovery reforms in the country,” he said.

In his remarks, Mr Gbenga Alade, the Managing Director, AMCON, stated that there was room for collaboration particularly to help maximise value in the public sector.

Alade noted that time had value and everything needed to be implemented at the right time to ensure value was not lost.

He stressed the need to reduce political interference in certain situations, saying Nigeria would start to move forward once everyone decides to do the right thing.

“When paid to withdraw and destroy a file, you must say no because you are doing the right thing.

“It is only then that Nigeria can change as until the individuals change, Nigeria cannot change,” he said.

Alade called for BRIPAN’s assistance in addressing the move by the CAC to delist some companies perceived not to be doing business.

This move, he noted, would hamper AMCON’s efforts at recovering some of the debts from these companies.

He also assured of the corporation’s commitment to BRIPAN’s trainings to lift standard of practice on insolvency, risk and rescue mechanisms to engender business longevity.(NAN)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

By Victor Adeoti

Wema Bank says it will train and empower 100,000 youths and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Ekiti.

Tunde Mabawonku, the bank’s
Executive Director of Retail and Digital Business, in a statement on Thursday, in Ado-Ekiti, said the training would be in partnership with Ekiti Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment.

Mabawonku said the training, tagged, ” Ekiti-Wema MSME Empowerment Programme”, was launched on Aug. 5.

He said under the programme, youth and MSMEs operating in the state would be trained in business management, digital empowerment and finance management skills.

Mabawonku said the programme was strategically designed to help the youth in the state to maximise their potential, while equipping businesses for sustainable growth and productivity, toward boosting macroeconomic conditions.

“The Ekiti-Wema MSME Empowerment Programme is set to be executed through virtual and physical training sessions, cutting across business management, digitalisation, and financial management.

“Additionally, it will provide access to mentorship support from experienced and successful entrepreneurs from within and outside Nigeria.

“Participants will also receive a certificate of participation upon completion of their training course.

“Beyond the training, participants will also gain access to the market and assistance in securing finances to put their learnings to practice and scale their operations.

“This comprehensive approach will ensure that the programme will not only enhance the capabilities of youth and MSMEs in the state but also facilitate their sustained growth and contribution to the economic development,” he said.

Mabawonku, who urged the youth to embrace the initiative, said that the bank was committed to the growth and development of Nigerians.

The director pledged the bank’s commitment to collaborating, sharing resources, and developing solutions that address the needs of people and ultimately empower them to thrive.

“Our robust portfolio attests to this deep-rooted commitment and with the Ekiti-Wema MSME Empowerment Programme, we are extending the reach of our positive impact, positively enhancing the lives and businesses of the people in the state.

“We are empowering them with the skills, knowledge, and expertise needed to thrive in today’s competitive market.

“Our approach is granular yet comprehensive, bringing tailored solutions for growth to the youth and businesses of Ekiti State right within their vicinity.

“We hope that through this initiative, the state will become a hub of productivity and economic buoyance.

“And the domino effect of this economic boost will translate on the national scale, improving our nation’s macroeconomic indicators for the best,” Mabawonku said.

Also, Mr Kayode Fasae, the state’s Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, said that the partnership with the bank was to implement a two-pronged approach of wealth creation and employment generation for skill development and finance.

“Wema Bank has been extremely supportive in working with the Ekiti State Government for the success of our people.

“We reiterate our unwavering commitment to maximise the deliverables of this Programme to serve as a veritable intervention platform for skill development and panacea for employment and wealth creation,” he said.

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

By Okeoghene Akubuike

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) says prices of beans, tomatoes, irish potatoes, garri, yam and other food items witnessed significant price increases in June 2024.

The NBS said this in its Selected Food Prices Watch report for June 2024 released in Abuja on Tuesday.

The report said that the average price of 1kg of brown beans increased by 252.13 per cent from N651.12 recorded in June 2023 to N N2,292.76 in June 2024.

“On a month-on-month basis, 1kg of brown beans increased by 14.11 per cent in June from the N2,009.23 recorded in May 2024.”

It said that the average price of 1kg of tomatoes increased by 320.67 per cent on a year-on-year basis from N547.28 recorded in June 2023 to N2,302.26 in June 2024.

“On a month-on-month basis, 1kg of tomatoes increased by 55.97 per cent from the N1,479.69 recorded in May 2024.”

The report said that the average price of irish potatoes increased by 288.50 per cent on a year-on-year basis from N623.75 in June 2023 to N2,423.27 in June 2024.

“On a month-on-month basis, the price increased by 51.92 per cent from the N1,595.07 recorded in May 2024.”

The NBS said that the average price of 1kg of white garri rose by 181.66 per cent on a year-on-year basis from N403.15 in June 2023 to N1,135.51 in June 2024.

“On a month-on-month basis, 1kg of white garri increased by 1.86 per cent from N1,114.72 recorded in May 2024.

In addition, the average price of 1kg of yam tuber rose by 295.79 per cent on a year-on-year basis from N510.77 recorded in June 2023 to N2,2021.55 in June 2024.

“On a month-on-month basis, it increased by 52.87 per cent from N1, 322.36 recorded in May 2024 to 2,021.55 in June 2024.”

On state profile analysis, the report showed that in June 2024, the highest average price of 1kg of brown beans was recorded in Kogi at N 3,006.43, while the lowest was recorded in Adamawa at N 1,336.11.

It said that Abuja recorded the highest average price of 1kg of tomato at N3,992.61, while the lowest was recorded in Kebbi at N1,200.

The NBS said that the highest average price of 1kg of yam tuber was recorded in Lagos at N3,376.54, while the lowest price was recorded in Adamawa at N1,100.

According to the report, Gombe recorded the highest average price of 1kg of white garri at N1,619.27, while the lowest was reported in Taraba at N900.

Analysis by zone showed that the average price of 1kg of brown beans was highest in the North-Central at N 2,923.45, followed by the South-South at N 2,630.03.

“The lowest price was recorded in the North-West at N1,647.03.”

The South-West and South-East recorded the highest average price of 1kg of tomatoes at N3,261.84 and N2,852.59, respectively, while the lowest price was in the North-West at N1,411.16.

The report said that the South-West recorded the highest average price of 1kg of yam tuber a tN2,745.80, followed by the North-Central at N 2,440.35, while the North-West recorded the lowest price at N1,238.49.

The NBS said also that the South-West and the North-East recorded the highest average price of 1kg of white garri at N1,199.62 and N1,155.63, respectively.

“The North-Central recorded the lowest price of 1kg of white garri at N1,055.87.”

The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that the federal government in a bid to address the incessant increase in food prices and ensure food security recently granted a 150-day duty-free import window for food commodities.

The suspended duty tariffs and taxes will be on the importation of certain food items across the land and sea borders which include maize, cowpeas, wheat, and husked brown rice.

However, experts have suggested more sustainable measures such as addressing the issue of insecurity, foreign exchange and transportation costs to address the soaring food prices and ensure food security. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

By Rukayat Moisemhe

Experts have called for the development of a framework aimed at enhancing women’s integration of digital transformation to increase their representation in the technology space.

They gave the advice at the Nigerian Institute of Management Chartered (NIM) 2024 Women in Management and Leadership (WIMLEAD) Conference on Tuesday in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the conference is: “Digital Transformation and Women Leadership”.

Mrs Solape Akinpelu, Chief Executive Officer, HerVest, said that Nigeria had the highest rate of female entrepreneurs globally, yet, only 15 per cent of its technology startup founders were women.

She noted that with only 28 per cent of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) leadership positions held by women, the growing field of digital transformation was a fertile ground to increase female representation in leadership roles.

Akinpelu, therefore, charged Nigerian women to integrate digital transformation in their businesses to increase value delivery to their stakeholders.

“Its adoption reduced cost, quickened development of products and services, increased entrance into new markets and amplified efficiency.

“According to the World Economic Forum, 100 trillion dollars will be added to the world economy through digital transformation by 2025.

“There is more work to be done regarding educating young women about tech jobs and what is out there – from engineers to coders to those in customer success roles, we are all touched and working in technology.

“Let us create a digital transformation framework, adopt agile methods, focus on interoperability, identify concrete elements of digital transformation and engage the entire organisation in digital transformation,” she said.

Dr Christiana Atako, President, NIM, said the conference’s theme was appropriate for the times we were in, noting that technology is key to today’s women leaders who desire to distinguish themselves and be ahead of the rest of the pack.

She said that digital transformation and women’s leadership were two crucial aspects of human development that could drive significant positive change in organisations and society.

She, however, noted that challenges women face in digital transformation included underrepresentation of women in technology, bias and stereotype and inadequate support and training.

Atako stated that to promote digital transformation in women’s leadership, there must be training and development programmes focused on digital skills and leadership and encourage mentorship and sponsorship opportunities.

“We must foster a culture of inclusivity and support, and celebrate women’s achievements and successes in digital transformation.

“By inculcating digital transformation in women’s leadership, organisations can unlock new potential, drive innovation, and create a more equitable and prosperous future,” she said.

In her remarks, First lady of Lagos State, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said women played crucial roles in modern society, serving as the bedrocks of homes and communities while contributing indispensably to various sectors of the economy.

Sanwo-Olu, represented by the wife to her Special Adviser on Mineral Resources, Mrs Victoria Olowu, lauded the NIM for the annual conference platform which promotes, protects and preserves the rights and wellbeing of women in the society.

She noted that the conference’s theme was apt and underscored the need for women to leverage technology for greater good.

“Leadership and innovative solutions are critical to driving women’s empowerment.

“Women in politics and leadership position bring unique insights and priorities as their involvement in governance promotes transparency, accountability and social justice.

“The office of the first lady in complimenting the efforts of the state government has initiated various interventions and support programmes for women, youths and children.

“We would continue to advocate policies that address the needs of all citizens, and collaborate with stakeholders to empower them in relevant sectors to meet up with the demands of the society.

“It is my belief that with this conference, the various challenges affecting women from becoming independent and realising their full potential would be significantly addressed,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

By Okeoghene Akubuike

The Federal Government says it is committed to the successful conduct of the 7th round of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS)/ National Immunisation Coverage Survey (NICS).

Adeyemi Adeniran, Statistician- General of the Federation, said this at the inauguration of the National Steering Committee and National Technical Committee for the 7th round of the MICS and NICS in Abuja on Monday.

Adeniran, Chief Executive Officer, National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), said the inauguration, which was in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) was a highlight of the preparatory activities of the two surveys.

He said there had been improvements and innovations to the two surveys since their last round in 2021.

Adeniran said there would be structural changes in the standard survey questionnaire and the expansion of its content in the seventh round of the two surveys.

“Improved technology will be deployed to capture geographic locations and improved turnaround time to complete the process of this round.

”Efficient data quality control to ensure results are robust enough for policy-making, capacity strengthening for our staff and improved online presence after the results are out.

“There will be challenges in the delivery of these two exercises, however, it comes with immense value for national development planning, policy-making and programme development and government decisions.

“Therefore, as part of the strategic plan put in place to ensure the success of the 7th round of the MICS and NICS, a governance structure has been constituted to carry out overall coordination of the survey and the entire process.”

He said the national steering committee would be chaired by the Statistician-General of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer, of NBS.

Adeniran said members were drawn from representatives from the National Population Commission, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and Primary Health Care Development Agency.

He said they also include representatives from the Ministries of Education, Water Resources and Sanitation, Environment And Natural Resources, Women Affairs and Social Development, Agriculture and Rural Development, and the Central Bank of Nigeria.

“Others are the representatives of the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs; National Human Capital Development Secretariat, Office of the Vice-President and State Ministries of Budget and Economic Planning.

“Others include UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO, UNDP, UNWomen, World Bank, GAFI, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Food and Agriculture Organisation, and World Food Programme.”

The Statistician-General said other critical members who had not been captured would be included in the course of the meetings of the steering committee toward the implementation of the surveys.

“Members of the steering committee are tasked with providing oversight for the planning, implementation and dissemination of MICS seven and NICS results. Ensuring the highest standards of accuracy and reliability.

“They are expected to advise the survey’s technical committee on the process and content of the survey, support them on the day-to-day operation of the survey management and promote ownership of the survey results.

“This will enable us to utilise the data effectively for policy formulation, advocacy and monitoring our national commitments to the 2030 SDGS and the African Agenda 2060.”

He said the technical committee comprised technical experts from the organisations represented on the steering committee and other relevant institutions that can assist with topics covered by the MICS/NICS.

Mr Wayne Bacale, Chief, Planning and Monitoring, at UNICEF, said he hoped the 7th round of the MICS would be a tool to help ministries reflect on how the country was progressing.

“I hope the inauguration will help us know the strategic priorities in the 7th edition and to what extent we can use the survey for our decision-making policy on Nigeria.

“The MICS and NICS is a strong story to tell on how we have progressed as a nation.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the MICS is a household survey developed by UNICEF to assist countries in filling data gaps for monitoring human development indicators in general and the situation of children and women, in particular.

The NBS implemented MICS which provides data on child mortality, health, nutrition, education, child and social protection, women’s health care and empowerment, water, sanitation and hygiene, while NICS assesses vaccination coverage provided through the health systems. (NAN)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

By Martha Agas

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, says the African continent is determined to empower its marginalised communities through its natural resources.

Alake described Africa as endowed with natural resources, capable of driving its sustainable economic growth, particularly with the critical minerals needed for the global energy transition.

He stated this on Thursday in Abuja. at a press briefing against the backdrop of the forthcoming 2024 African Natural Resources & Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS).

He said that equitable distribution of resources and targeted investments in local communities were key to empowering those historically underserved.

Alake said that the move would reduce inequality, promote social stability, and ensure inclusive growth across the continent.

“By channeling investments into rural areas and marginalised communities, we can create opportunities for sustainable livelihoods, improve access to essential services, and foster an environment, where every individual has the chance to thrive.”

He said that the summit, to be hosted by Nigeria from July 16 to July 18 was aimed at exploring strategies for utilising fossil fuel revenues to fund Africa’s transition to a greener future.

“AFNIS 2024 is not merely a gathering of minds, but a convergence of visionaries committed to transforming Africa’s natural resource landscape.

“ Our discussions and decisions will resonate across the continent, influencing policies, shaping industries, and setting the course for a sustainable future,” he said.

The minister said that the summit was also aimed at bolstering the continent’s efforts toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, while fostering the development of cleaner, more accessible, and reliable energy sources.

According to the minister, the summit will provide a platform for government officials, the private sector and industry experts from across the continent to chart ways for the sustainable development of its natural resources.

He said that the 2024 theme “Natural Resources for Economic Development,” underscored the significant role that Africa’s natural resources play in driving economic prosperity.

Alake said that the economic growth of the region would have multiplier effects, including alleviating poverty and creating job opportunities for its people.

“ By fostering economic growth, we can alleviate poverty, create job opportunities and ensure prosperity for all.

“The responsible exploitation of our resources will generate revenues that can be reinvested into our economies, enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

“This cycle of growth will elevate the living standards of our people and position Africa as a formidable player in the global economy, ”he said.

The minister said that the summit would deliberate on leveraging Africa’s natural resources to address crucial issues such as quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation.

He added that other issues to tackle also include provision of affordable and clean energy, and proactive climate action.

Alake explained that the summit would be the third edition and would be hosted in partnership with Core International Mining Company.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Gabriel Yough

By Martha Agas

The House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise Duties, has tasked the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on improved security at land borders across the country.

The chairman of the committee, Rep. Leke Abejide, made the call during an oversight function at the NCS headquarters on Wednesday in Abuja.

He acknowledged the efforts of the NCS in the interception of arms and ammunition, particularly in its recent operations in Lagos and Rivers States.

“These interceptions were not routine seizures. They potentially saved the lives of countless Nigerians and demonstrated the exceptional skills and dedication of your personnel in protecting our borders,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the NCS recently seized 844 riffles and 112,500 rounds of ammunition in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Similarly, the NCS, Murtala Muhammed Area command, Ikeja, seized 55 pieces of unassembled Jojef Magnum semi automatic shot guns.

The chairman, however, urged the service not to be complacent with the outcomes, as the seized items were an indication that the country was facing enormous challenges and required more security at its borders.

“Every weapon and illicit item seized is a victory, but every attempt to smuggle them into Nigeria is a call to redouble our efforts,” he said.

According to the chairman, the committee will undertake a thorough investigation into all illegal activities taking place within bonded terminals, and free trade zones across the country.

“Our objective is to bring sanity and order to these areas , ensuring they operate within the confines of the law and contribute positively to the nation’s growth,” he said .

Abejide explained that the move was necessary to eliminate illegal businesses and activities that threatened national security and economic stability in those areas.

He said that the committee was advocating for the progress of the e-customs modernisation project, and urged the service to address issues of network outages to ensure a smooth transition.

The chairman assured the NCS of the committee’s support in addressing its challenges, saying that continuous investment in resources, technology, and manpower was crucial to ensure greater success.

Earlier, the Comptroller-General (C-G) of NCS, Adewale Adeniyi, acknowledged the importance of legislative oversight in ensuring efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the implementation of operations and projects within the service.

Adeniyi said that their insights and guidance were crucial in helping NCS to improve its services for the progress of the country.

“You help us to better facilitate trade and to secure our borders while collecting revenues that are very vital to our economy,” he said.

He assured the committee that NCS was committed to continuous improvement and innovation in all aspects of its services and project implementation.

According to the customs boss, feedback and recommendations from the legislature are crucial to enable them to streamline their processes, improve efficiency, and uphold the highest standards of integrity and service.

He said that Customs was determined to instill discipline among its personnel in  the discharge of duties, and had taken disciplinary action against those found wanting, to serve as a deterrent to others.

Also speaking, Caroline Niagwan,  the Deputy Comptroller -General in charge of Tariff and Trade, said that the service was working assiduously to meet its annual  revenue target of N5.1 trillion.

She said the service had collected N2.74 trillion as revenue in the first half of 2024, surpassing the expected revenue target of N2.54 trillion for the same period.

Edited by Isaac Ukpoju