- Insecurity is disrupting Customs operations across northern Nigeria
- Some officers have been killed or injured on duty
- Niger/Kogi Command has exceeded its monthly revenue target
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has raised concerns over the impact of insecurity on its operations and revenue generation across parts of northern Nigeria.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs and Zonal Coordinator for Zone B, Nsikak Umoh, disclosed this in Minna during an inspection of the Niger/Kogi Area Command headquarters and a meeting with vehicle importers.
Umoh said the security situation was affecting not only the Niger/Kogi command but also several Customs formations across the North-West, including Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina and Zamfara states.
She explained that the growing security threats had made Customs operations more difficult, with some personnel losing their lives or sustaining injuries while carrying out their duties.
According to her, the situation had compelled some commands to reduce their field activities or operate with greater caution, resulting in lower revenue collections.
Umoh said the service was therefore encouraging personnel to rely more heavily on intelligence-led operations to protect officers while maintaining legitimate revenue-generating activities.
She added that insecurity was also taking a toll on the physical and mental health of Customs officers, with some personnel reportedly experiencing stress-related conditions such as hypertension.
Despite the challenges, Umoh praised the Niger/Kogi Area Command for maintaining strong revenue performance.
She revealed that the command had exceeded its monthly revenue target of N17 million, collecting more than N200 million as of August 12.
The Customs official commended officers and other stakeholders for sustaining the command’s revenue-generating activities despite the difficult security environment.
