Seme Customs Command Achieves N743 Million Revenue in February, Seizes Contraband Worth N267 Million

By DAPO OLAWUNI

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Seme Area Command has reported a robust revenue generation of N743,728,652.16 for February 2025, alongside significant seizures of contraband valued at N267,054,172.00.

This was announced during the command’s maiden media briefing on March 13th, 2025, at the Seme-Krake Border.

Dr. Ben Oramalugo, the Area Controller highlighted that the impressive revenue collection was a direct result of strategic measures implemented since his assumption of office on February 11th, 2025.

These measures according to him focused on enhancing revenue generation, trade facilitation, and anti-smuggling operations.

“This remarkable achievement underscores our commitment to blocking revenue leakages and ensuring maximum collection for national development,” Dr. Oramalugo stated.

In addition to the revenue generated, the command facilitated the export of 28,395.293 metric tonnes of produce, valued at N7,852,172,249.00.

The Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) contributed N39,260,861.25 to the overall revenue.

However, the command’s efforts extended beyond revenue collection and trade facilitation.

A significant aspect of their operations involved combating smuggling. The command reported the following seizures:

• 444 Parcels of Cannabis Sativa (Marijuana)

• 181 Packs of Tramadol

• 600 Bottles of Codeine Syrup (100ml each)

• 240 Kegs of Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS)

• 1,809 Bags of Foreign Parboiled Rice (50kg each)

• 17 Sacks of Used Shoes

• 56 Bales of Used Clothes

• 203 Pieces of Used Tyres

Dr. Oramalugo emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration and stakeholder engagement, noting that partnerships with traditional rulers and security agencies have been crucial in achieving their objectives.

He also highlighted the command’s operational restructuring, which has led to increased accountability and improved performance.

“Our mission at Seme Area Command extends beyond revenue collection—it encompasses national security and economic growth, which are best achieved through strong institutional partnerships,” he said.

The seized Cannabis Sativa was handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Seme Command, in line with inter-agency collaboration.

Dr. Oramalugo issued a strong warning to smugglers, reiterating the command’s commitment to suppressing illicit trade and prosecuting offenders. He also urged them to embrace legitimate trade and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.

The command’s strategic plans moving forward include strengthening engagement with community leaders, enhancing surveillance, and deploying advanced intelligence strategies.