In a recent press statement issued by Comptroller Saidu Yusuf, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Port Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, it was revealed that the command had seen a significant increase in revenue collection for the first quarter of 2024.
The total revenue collected amounted to N66,920,181,586.30, marking a notable rise from the previous year’s figure of N44,721,215,776.75, representing a substantial 49.6 percent increase.
Comptroller Yusuf attributed this impressive growth in revenue to a combination of factors, including the implementation of strategic initiatives aimed at expediting cargo clearance processes.
He specifically praised the efforts of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for spearheading these strategies.
One such initiative highlighted was the time release study (TRS), currently underway, which aims to streamline operations and enhance efficiency at the PTML Command.
Furthermore, Comptroller Yusuf expressed confidence in the command’s ability to surpass its own record of three-hour cargo clearance for compliant traders.
He emphasized the importance of improving compliance levels among port users to achieve even faster clearance times, potentially reaching a two-hour turnaround.
In addition to efficiency improvements, Comptroller Yusuf underscored the importance of maintaining a secure environment within the PTML terminal, particularly for Roll On Roll Off (RoRo) and general cargoes.
He urged importers and their agents to leverage available incentives for compliant traders, such as fast track clearance, advance ruling, and potential migration to the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status.
Addressing concerns about smuggling activities, Comptroller Yusuf condemned the unlawful importation of vehicles intended for Nigerian roads through neighboring countries via unapproved routes.
He emphasized the command’s capability to detect and process such cargoes efficiently, urging strict adherence to customs regulations.
Looking ahead to the second quarter and the rest of the year, Comptroller Yusuf urged command officers to leverage available technology and reaffirm their dedication to their duties to achieve further success.
He also warned port users of heightened anti-smuggling measures, emphasizing the consequences outlined in the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023 for any detected infractions.
Comptroller Yusuf expressed optimism regarding the command’s ability to surpass its annual revenue target and reiterated appreciation for the cooperation of government and private sector stakeholders in supporting the PTML Command’s goals of revenue collection and preventing unlawful activities.
