The Murtala Muhammed Airport Command (MMA), Lagos, under the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), announced a remarkable revenue achievement for the first quarter of 2024.
According to the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Mohammed Yusuf, the command generated an impressive N45.23 billion from importers at the airport during this period.
Comptroller Yusuf highlighted that this revenue figure marks a substantial increase of 111% compared to the same period in 2023, where the command generated N21.36 billion.
The stark difference of N23.86 billion reflects the command’s commitment to revenue generation despite prevailing challenges.
In addressing the challenges faced, Comptroller Yusuf acknowledged the global uncertainties impacting various sectors, including the instability in exchange rates affecting Nigeria.
However, he emphasised the command’s unwavering dedication to collecting government revenue and ensuring public safety by curbing smuggling activities while facilitating legitimate import and export trades.
The command’s efforts to intercept contraband were also notable, with seizures valued at N5.79 billion in the first quarter of 2024. Among the confiscated items were 50 pieces of 9mm live ammunition, 1,164kg of sea cucumbers, 58kg of donkey genitals, and 17 packages of Tramadol.
Comptroller Yusuf expressed satisfaction with the command’s performance, attributing the success to the collective efforts of its personnel despite the prevailing adversities. The substantial revenue increase and contraband interceptions underscore the command’s effectiveness in fulfilling its mandate and contributing to national economic security.
