Massive seizures by Customs at Ogun 1 Command :  CGC Adeniyi says working collaboration with border communities still on-going

Massive seizures by Customs at Ogun 1 Command :  CGC Adeniyi says working collaboration with border communities still on-going

The Comptroller General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has said that the working collaboration between Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and border communities is still on-going.

The CGC made this known while responding to questions on massive seizures made by Customs at Ogun 1 Command, despite the collaboration between the Service and border communities in Ogun State.

The CGC emphasised that the working synergy is still functional; notwithstanding the activities of unrepentant smugglers in the region.

He explained that Customs remains committed to working synergy aims at safeguarding national security and
protecting the economic ambience from illicit traders. He said the Service will continue to carry out its statutory responsibilities in tandem with the law.

According to him, working collaboration with traditional rulers and members of the border communities cannot completely eradicate smuggling. But such working relationship is useful in the area of giving credible information that helps in tackling the menace of smuggling in the country.

His explanation :  “The collaboration is useful in various ways. Aside from information sharing, the traditional rulers now come out openly to condemn smuggling. They don’t shield economic saboteurs from being caught. They also prevent them from using their facilities”.

Also, responding to questions on whether the Customs Management has incentives or reward for outstanding performance, especially for officers involved in spectacular seizures, the CGC informed:
“The reality is; this is the work we have signed to do. We must do it to the best of our ability.

“However, this government of Renewed Hope appreciates hard work and dedication to duties. I can assure you that the Service Management takes note of hard working officers in different Units.

“That is why you see some experienced officers who had never held any Command being posted as Area Controllers. Also, some Controllers being moved from one formation to another.

“The reason is to restructure the system, bring out these experienced officers and test their capability and competence”.

Speaking further, CGC Adeniyi stressed that the massive seizures made by Customs at Ogun 1 Command in just two weeks, clearly shows the doggedness and tenacity of DC Ahmadu Shuaibu and his enforcement officers.

The CGC openly commended DC Shuaibu and his team, urging them to remain focused and be ready to do more in the service of their fatherland.

Observation at the scene :
Our Correspondent observed that while Journalists were already on ground for the press conference, more seizures of rice and cannabis sativa were still coming in. Also, the CGC in company of the Area Controller and senior officers moved round the entire premises checking the seized items displayed in the open.