The acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has outlined prerequisites for the resumption of activities at land borders across the nation.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
During his visit to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Ogun 1 command in Idiroko, Ogun State, Adeniyi conveyed that the NCS would consider revising certain policies if border communities exhibit a high level of compliance.
One of the policies subject to revision, as stated by the Customs head, is the evaluation of the regulation governing the distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to gas stations situated within 20 kilometers of the country’s borders….CONTINUE READING
Adeniyi expressed, “We have received various concerns from our border communities, some of which fall outside the direct jurisdiction of the Customs service.
However, we are collaborating with appropriate government bodies and will propose policy reviews when circumstances demand at the borders.”
He continued, “If we observe adherence to import and export regulations in our vicinity, coupled with community support for government agencies in enforcing these laws.
If we witness collaboration between the communities and government agencies, we will consider recommending the review of border closure, the allowance of used car imports via borders, and especially due to subsidy removal, we may suggest revising restrictions on petrol stations in proximity to our borders.”
Adeniyi also urged the officers at the Ogun 1 command to maintain focus and renew their commitment to upholding national and regional security.
He emphasized, “My purpose here today is to stress the significance of remaining dedicated to the cause of national and regional security.
Idiroko stands as a pivotal entry point into Nigeria and the Benin Republic, extending to the wider sub-region. Thus, we cannot afford to permit criminals who exploit our borders to engage in activities detrimental to our national security.”
He added, “Our shared mandate is to prevent criminals who exploit our borders for various illicit activities, be it smuggling, human trafficking, drug trafficking, or threats to public health. Customs understands that no single agency can combat these challenges alone; collaboration is essential.
The nature of crime has evolved, with criminals engaging in diverse illegal activities across the border. Smugglers, for instance, often involve themselves in arms and ammunition smuggling.
Human traffickers often facilitate currency movement outside the country, engaging in money laundering and illicit currency trafficking across borders,” he concluded.
