The Nigeria Customs Service has raised alarm over increased arms import and export of wildlife just as it declared an emergency on pharmaceuticals and medicaments.
Breifing newsmen in Lagos Tuesday, Comptroller General of the Service, Adeniyi Adewale, said that the agency has resolved to protect Nigeria’s borders and economic interests.
Adeniyi also said that the Service has adopted a fresh approach in fulfilling its mandate of balancing revenue collection, facilitating trade and ensuring compliance with the relevant laws.
He stated that the scale and sophistication of these illicit activities are alarming adding since 2018 the NCS has intercepted 20 significant shipments, comprising 10,498 pieces of various arms and 114,929 pieces of ammunition, with an estimated Duty Paid Value, DPV of N9.58billion
He stated: “The challenges we face are formidable and multifaceted. Unscrupulous elements seek to exploit our current economic situation, engaging in smuggling activities that threaten the very fabric of our society.
“From arms and ammunition to narcotics, from restricted pharmaceuticals to staple foods, and even to our precious fuel resources – the spectrum of illicit trade is vast and varied.
“The intricate connections between these diverse smuggling activities and the networks facilitating them are now the primary focus of our strategic operations, such as Operation Whirlwind and Operation Swift Sting.
“These among other initiatives represent the multifaceted approach adopted by NCS to fortify our operations and safeguard Nigeria’s health and security interests”. he added.
Adeniyi added that the embarrassment caused by these activities on the global stage is significant, potentially impacting our diplomatic relations and economic partnerships, therefore it is imperative that we address this issue with the utmost urgency and commitment.
