The Kano State Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service said it generated N40.8 billion revenue between January and April  2024.

The Area Comptroller, Dauda Chana, made this known in an interview on Tuesday in Kano.

The Kano area command covers Kano and Jigawa.

He said that about N10.6 billion was collected as revenue in April.

Mr Chana said there was a significant increase in the revenue generation profile of the command, compared to the same period in 2023, when N12.3 billion was realised within the same period.

The area comptroller attributed the increase to the command’s security measures put in place to ensure revenue generation.

The comptroller said already, the area command had increased stringent security measures to prevent all forms of smuggling in the area.

He said, “Well trained armed personnel have been posted to strategic locations to deal decisively with those involved in illegal smuggling of materials into our area of supervision. We are battle ready to end smuggling through our various strategies to pave the way for arrest and prosecution of those involved in illegal businesses.’’

Mr Chana appealed to traditional rulers and stakeholders, especially those around the border areas, for support to sensitise residents to the negative effects of smuggling on the nation’s economy.

“We have also reached out to youths in these border communities, to assist our field officers with required intelligence that will assist in curbing all forms of smuggling activities. The command’s area of coverage is a no-go area for smugglers as competent officers have been stationed at identified illegal smuggling routes to ensure arrests and prosecution of offenders,’’ Mr Chana said.

He also solicited the support of stakeholders in mobilising residents to shun smuggling and embrace export of local goods.

(NAN)