THUR APRIL 10 2025-theGBJournal| The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, recently played host to the House of Representatives’ Committee on Customs and Excise as part of its constitutional oversight function.
Led by the Chairman, Leke Abejide, the committee’s visit, on Monday, aimed to assess the Command’s operations, revenue performance, and capital projects in line with the 2023 and 2024 budgetary approvals.
Welcoming the lawmakers, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, commended the committee’s presence as a clear indication of its commitment to enhancing customs administration, trade facilitation, and national revenue optimisation.
“In Customs, it is our job to ensure that illicit items, especially arms, do not get into the hands of non-state actors. In spite of the difficult terrain, we have made numerous seizures at the port and border,” the CAC stated.
He highlighted the strategic importance of the Command, particularly the Joint Border Post (JBP) along the Lagos-Abidjan Corridor, describing it as a critical gateway for regional trade and integration.
“It is a one-stop shop that combines clearance activities, facilitates trade, reduces transit time, and strengthens intelligence sharing among ECOWAS member states”, he said.
However, the Area Controller also raised concerns over several operational challenges, including deteriorating infrastructure, prolonged power outage spanning over seven years in the Seme axis, and the persistent threat of ocean encroachment.
Responding, Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide emphasised the purpose of the oversight visit, stating that it was to evaluate the Command’s alignment with appropriated funds and performance expectations.
“We are here to support you, the Service, and ensure that everything works well for you”, Hon. Abejide said.
He assured that the committee’s findings would guide subsequent budget considerations.
The visit concluded with mutual assurances of continued collaboration aimed at strengthening the Nigeria Customs Service as a cornerstone of national security, economic growth, and regional cooperation.
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