Comptroller-general of Nigeria Customs Service Adewale Adeniyi says the service recorded a surge in monthly revenue collection from N202 billion to N333.9 billion in the past four months.

Mr Adeniyi announced this on Wednesday in Abuja at a national workshop on legislative compliance. He said the service collected an average revenue of N202 billion in the first half of the year.

The customs boss added that in the past four months, however, monthly revenue collection surged to N333.9 billion between July and October, showing a 65.5 per cent increase.

Mr Adeniyi explained that the customs partnership with the National Assembly had yielded positive outcomes through a review and enhancement of tariff structures and regulations.

He said the NCS had optimised revenue collection and ensured funds were available for national development projects.

“One of our early achievements has been a remarkable boost in monthly revenue collection. I am delighted to announce that we have consistently exceeded the monthly target collection of N307 billion, marking a remarkable departure from previous performances,” stated the customs comptroller-general.

Mr Adeniyi added, “The joint efforts of the NCS and the legislative arm of government have allowed us to respond effectively to public concerns and petitions.”

Speaking on challenges faced by customs, Mr Adeniyi said it often encountered budgetary constraints that limited its capacity to enforce compliance effectively.

The limitations, he explained, could affect the acquisition of modern technology, the organisation of training and the recruitment of personnel required for effective enforcement.

He stressed that inadequate infrastructure and technology at border posts could impede the customs’ ability to inspect and regulate trade effectively, leaving room for noncompliance. 

(NAN)