The new Customs Area Controller of Apapa Area 1 Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu is not smiling as usual.
On assumption of office, Compt. Olomu warned that it may be business as usual as he warned that there will be zero tolerance for the smuggling of prohibited imports, concealment and false declaration of imported goods..
Compt . Olomu equally stated that he will implement all the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Act 2023, the Common External Tarriff, import and export prohibitions guidelines and other books of instructions as directed by the Federal Government
He said that he will promote a robust Customs Community relations system where there be regular interface with all government and sector stakeholders and upscale enforcement with intelligence to ensure that only legitimate trade is allowed in Apapa port as well as all the terminals within his Command.
” My assumption of this office is with a mind of confidence that we won’t betray the trust reposted on us by the government , the CGC and the entire management of the NCS”, he stated.
He also said that Nigeria holds a strategic position for trade in West and Central Africa and that Apapa port is very critical In Nigeria’s participation the African Continental Free Trade Area( ACFTA) and that he wants to revive Nigeria’s readiness for improved trade with fellow African countries and the world at large.
Compt Olomu urged officers of the Command to brace up for the challenges that will feature as well fallout of Customs modernization, otherwise called e,-Customs and many other groundbreaking World Customs Organizations innovations like the recently introduced advanced ruling policy.
He advised officers to treat all matters with the deserving speed and avoid delays that will slow down government revenue inflow.
He promised to establish a Resolution Desk that will operate every day, including week ends.