CGC Adeniyi declares excise traders, FTZ operators critical stakeholders to Customs in Ogun State

CGC Adeniyi declares excise traders, FTZ operators critical stakeholders to Customs in Ogun State

…As Compt Shauibu brings 18 factories under excise control

“My understanding is that you are critical stakeholders for us. It is through your activities that we can report our own activities. It’s therefore in our interest that we do everything to ensure that your companies and businesses prosper”, said the Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR.

The CGC made this declaration in Abeokuta, the headquarters of Customs in Ogun II Command, when he visited the Command as part of his familiarisation tour.

During interaction with the Excise Traders and Free Trade Zone Operators in Ogun State, the CGC explained that the operations of these enterprises are a priority to the Service.

His words : “It is not all the time that Customs officers are overzealous in implementation of the laws; most times, they keep in mind the basic objectives behind these entities

“It is the intention of government through these enterprises to boost foreign exchange for Nigeria and its economy, create jobs for Nigerians and of course, to enhance Nigeria’s economic development. This is why a number of concessions, a number of waivers have been granted for free zone operators”.

The stakeholders congratulated the Customs Boss on his appointment, while also raising issues of concern on operations of Free Trade Zones and factories under excise control.

In his response, the CGC informed that a Committee has been set up to address issues of concern.

He revealed : “I have set up a committee consisting of representatives of enterprises, the Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Oil and Gas Authority, working with representatives from my Office to look at these areas of concern”.

The CGC urged officers of the Command to understand the strategic importance of their operations and activities to Nigeria’s economic development.

While appreciating the CGC for his visit, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Ogun 11 Command, Compt Ahmadu Shauibu, highlighted the achievements made by the Command under his supervision.

He disclosed : “At our level, since we came in, we have brought in about 18 factories under excise control”.

The CGC’s visit ended with a tour of facilities at the Command.