Seme Customs surpasses 2023 revenue target by 100% in November

 

Paul Ogbuokiri

 

The Seme – Krake Border Command of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) said it collected over N4.4 billion for November, 2023. Clearly surpassing it’s N2.2 billion 2023 revenue target by 100 per cent one month to the end of the year.

Customs Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Timi Bomodi who dropped this hint in his office at the weekend, expressed optimism about the command collecting over ₦5 billion revenue by year end, even as he restated the determination of the command to continue to sustain the tempo in revenue collection as elicited by the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.

This is as Comptroller Bomodi has disclosed that export proceeds of the command within the same period was over N8 billion.

Meanwhile, the Comptroller Bomodi has said that documentation cross-border activities is crucial for business growth, fostering data-driven decisions and attracting businesses seeking specific products moving through Seme.

His words, “When I assumed office on September 18, the command had collected about N1.9 billion which was in excess of what was expected. The command had reached its target for the year by September 18.

“But I am glad to report that by the end of November, the command would have collected about N4.4 billion.

“In addition to that which is about N2.1 billion against September and November. Hopefully, by the end of the year we will be doing over N5 billion.

“Ultimately, we are expecting that by the end of the year, we will be doing between N11 billion and N12 billion exports. With trade being boosted on this command, Seme has the potential of generating well over N25 to N30 billion exports.

He said that with the coming on board of the current CGC, the service has experienced many strategic reviews, with unprecedented results in just a short while, even as things are beginning to pick up at all levels, human relations not left out.

According to him, simplified, automated processes will enhance trade facilitation, enabling smoother duty payments and examinations; hence the goal of the command includes having Nigerian customs officers stationed at Benin ports, reducing transit time and ensuring efficient movement of goods without redundant checks.

He emphasised that Seme command holds a pivotal role in regional trade, serving as the critical passage along the Lagos corridor, connecting trade routes from Lagos to Abidjan and beyond.

“Seme is fundamental to regional trade. When you talk about Lagos corridor, you are actually making reference to Seme Command. Seme is the major artery through which goods move from Lagos, all the way down to Abidjan and other routes and countries.

“A Lot needs to be done, a lot being done and hopefully we want to see an increment in trade. to this extent, We are paying attention to critical infrastructure. We have interacted with members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). We feel there are certain things that need to be put right within the confines of trading brotherhood. We will strive to enhance our functions with all government agencies here.”

Bomodi further disclosed that customs have simplified processes for exports, therefore called on all exporters to follow the simplified processes and document their exports no matter how small it is, saying that will help to generate data for government planning.

“Our CG has simplified many things, and has removed those considerations that would negatively impact on trade.

“Potentially we hope that by the time fiscal policy is reviewed along with other exclusions, especially regards to the importation of cars taken out, we no doubt aspire higher.

“We are all aware that presently we don’t import cars through the land borders, but if the government decides to change that policy, Seme we believe will be high in her revenue. We are also hoping that will happen,” he stated.

On fight against smuggling, Comptroller Bomodi said the command looks beyond focus on seizures, particularly of items affected by monetary policies, such as petroleum products, protected animals, and endangered species adding that advocacy efforts underscore the importance of preserving these species for a sustainable environment, highlighting the balance between mankind and nature.

“A lot of positives have been made. We have made a lot of seizures regards to certain items that before now were affected by monetary policies; seizures regarding petroleum products that people try to move across the borders, such that runs into billions.

“Also, seizures on animals protected under national protection from illicit trade and endangered species. Those seizures were significant to the extent that to sustain over a period of time and we kept on doing advocacy concerning these kinds of animals.

“A lot of people don’t understand why they need to protect them, and why trading in them is considered illegal internationally. But it’s a job we must do, if we must talk about a sustainable environment in which there is a balance between man and nature.