Seme Customs takes inter-agency synergy to Benin Republic …Visits Nigerian ambassador in Benin

Seme Customs takes inter-agency synergy to Benin Republic

…Visits Nigerian ambassador in Benin

.Says trade facilitation, revenue generation vital for economic growth

By Udeme Clement

The Customs Area Controller, CAC, Seme Area Command of Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Comptroller Mohammed Uba, has taken inter-agency collaboration to Republic of Benin, in a bid to stem the tide in illicit trade at Seme border.

Comptroller Uba did this through an official visit to the Nigerian Ambassador in Benin Republic during the week.

During the visit, Uba and his team were warmly received by the Customs Controller of Benin Republic, Mrs. Akinosho Hairat.

 Comptroller Uba who is always known for his exceptional performance at every Command he supervises, said that such visit, as well as a working synergy with the Customs of neighbouring country becomes imperative to block all avenues of illegal trade at the border, in order to boost revenue generation for the Federal Government.  

He also emphasized that Seme Command under his watch would leave no stone unturned in thwarting the efforts of economic saboteurs at the border.

On his level of preparedness to ensure constant surveillance at a difficult terrain likes Seme, he said, “The Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC, Ali Hameed Ali has provided us with necessary logistics and operational tools to function effectively, Therefore, we are fully equipped to carry out our statutory functions to the best of our ability without any fear of intimidation.”

On the significance of his visit to Benin Republic, he explained, “Benin shares the same border with Nigeria, therefore such visit and a working collaboration with their Customs at the border would enable us curb illicit businesses at the border effectively”.

He added, “We are also working hand-in-hand with our sister agencies at the border to raise the tempo of anti-smuggling activities. These include Nigerian Army, Police and other security agencies”.     

Uba’s visit to Benin Republic was a huge success, as the Emire of lakossa town in Benin came to welcome him.