Nigeria Customs Service in the Katsina Area Command has reported a notable achievement in revenue generation for the fiscal year 2023.
The Command’s Controller, Mr. Mohammed Umar, disclosed that they exceeded expectations by generating over N1.132 billion during this period.
This announcement took place in Katsina during a ceremony where 30 recently promoted officers were decorated.
Despite encountering challenges such as banditry and the closure of borders with Niger Republic, Controller Umar emphasized the significance of surpassing the revenue target, even though it fell slightly short of the N1.304 billion goal set for the command in 2023.
Mr. Umar explained, “This figure represents about 87.8 per cent of the revenue target issued.” He highlighted the command’s commitment to compliance with the directive on border closure, emphasizing their strict adherence to and enforcement of the principles guiding this instruction.
During the stated period, the command successfully intercepted 369 contraband items, including used vehicles, tires, second-hand clothing, vegetable oil, and foreign parboiled rice, among others.
Mr. Umar also pointed out the commendable progress made in fostering synergy with other security agencies for intelligence gathering and improved operations within and outside the border corridors.
He underlined the cordial working relationships the command has with the state government, traditional institutions, religious leaders, and border communities.
These relationships, he stated, contribute to facilitating trade without compromising economic and national security.
Mr. Umar acknowledged the support received from the Comptroller General of Customs, Mr. Wale Adeniyi, his management team, officers and men of the command, and other units of the service.
He urged the recently promoted officers to rededicate themselves to their work, emphasizing the constitutional mandate of revenue generation, legitimate trade facilitation, and suppression of smuggling.
In his charge to the promoted officers, Mr. Umar stressed the importance of behaving responsibly and giving due respect to their uniform.
He reminded them that their current position is coveted by many and encouraged them to uphold the standards expected in delivering the service’s mandate.
