The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Port Harcourt II Command, has made a massive interception of illicit goods, seizing a total of 75 containers with a staggering Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N47.6 billion.
Details of the Major Interception
Disclosing the operation, the Customs Area Controller, Aliyu Alkali, stated that a significant portion of the seized containers, specifically 30 of them, were found to be loaded with expired, illicit, and unregistered pharmaceutical products. The remaining consignments were confiscated for violating various provisions of the nation's customs laws.
Alkali, in a statement signed by the Command's Public Relations Officer, Theophilus Duniya, praised the dedication and professionalism of his officers. He attributed the successful seizures to their uncompromising posture, patriotism, diligence, and high level of professionalism in the line of duty.
Record-Breaking Revenue Collection for 2025
Beyond the seizures, the Port Harcourt II Command announced an outstanding performance in revenue generation for the fiscal year 2025. The Command collected a total of N731.2 billion in revenue.
This figure represents a remarkable achievement, as it surpassed the command's annual target by 104.46 per cent. It also significantly exceeded the total revenue collected in the preceding year, 2024.
Factors Behind the Success
Area Controller Alkali credited this exceptional performance to several key factors. He highlighted the effective implementation of the Comptroller-General of Customs' policy directives and the strategic deployment of the indigenous Unified Customs Management System (UCMS) platform, which has expedited cargo clearance processes.
He further noted that the command ensured strict adherence to standard operating procedures and maintained a high level of discipline among its officers. Continuous and constructive engagement with critical stakeholders in the maritime sector also played a vital role in facilitating trade while ensuring compliance.
While commending the synergy from stakeholders, Alkali expressed gratitude to the management of the Nigeria Customs Service for fostering an enabling environment that led to these achievements.
A Call for Honest Declarations
In light of these operations, Controller Alkali issued a strong appeal to importers and customs-licensed agents. He encouraged them to always make honest and accurate declarations of their goods.
He assured that the Port Harcourt II Command remains steadfast in its dual mandate: facilitating legitimate trade for economic growth while rigorously enforcing customs regulations with the highest standards of integrity and professionalism to protect the nation's economy and its citizens.
