The Ogun II Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has restated its determination to create a business-friendly atmosphere while boosting national revenue through efficient operations.
Area Controller, Olusola Akingbade, gave the assurance after embarking on a familiarisation tour of excise factories and Free Trade Zones across the Ijebu-Ode, Sagamu, Ota, and Agbara/Igbesa industrial corridors of Ogun State.
This was contained in a statement issued in Abeokuta by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Dauda Adamu.
According to Akingbade, the tour was part of a broader initiative to strengthen cooperation between the Customs Service and key industry players in the state.
While addressing stakeholders during the visit, she reaffirmed her commitment to maintaining an open-door policy and promoting effective communication and collaboration with members of the business community.
Akingbade noted that the exercise was designed to sustain stakeholders’ confidence, stimulate economic development, and deepen relationships between the Customs Service and the private sector.
“Customs cannot operate in isolation. Our success in revenue generation and trade facilitation depends on our ability to listen, engage, and partner effectively with stakeholders. My office is open to your contributions and observations as we work together toward achieving our shared goals,” she said.
The Area Controller also promised to remove all barriers impeding smooth trade operations within the command’s jurisdiction.
“Our mandate is not only to collect revenue but also to facilitate trade. We will take every necessary step to ensure that legitimate trade in these Free Trade Zones continues to thrive within the bounds of law,” she assured.
During the familiarisation exercise, Akingbade visited several major establishments, including Nigerian Breweries Plc in Ota and Sagamu, Rite Foods Limited in Ososa, Intercontinental Distilleries, and Nigeria Distilleries.
The tour also covered key industrial sites such as the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone, Flour Mills, and Celplas Free Trade Zone, where she engaged with management teams on ways to further enhance trade facilitation and compliance within the zones.
