NCS Clears Air on Smuggling, Revenue Allegations

The Nigeria Customs Service has come out to refute claims of widespread smuggling and revenue leakage within its ranks. According to the National Public Relations Officer, Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, these allegations are a gross misrepresentation of the Service's enforcement activities and administrative processes. Maiwada was responding to an investigative report that claimed there was an upsurge in smuggling along several corridors, including Seme, Idiroko, Ilaro, Ipokia, and Igbeti-Kishi. He argued that the allegation of increased smuggling was not consistent with the Service's enforcement efforts, pointing to the numerous seizures that have been made along these corridors. 'Our goal is to reduce smuggling to the barest minimum, not to claim that it can be completely eradicated,' Maiwada stated. The NCS also addressed the issue of the 846 valuation code, which was allegedly being manipulated at the Apapa, Tin Can Island, and PTML Area Commands. Maiwada explained that the 846 code is a digital valuation tool designed for vehicles with non-standard or non-compliant Vehicle Identification Numbers, including specialised heavy equipment, classic vehicles, and customised models. He noted that while standard vehicles are assessed automatically through manufacturer-linked databases, applications under the 846 code are subjected to secondary approval by valuation officers and Area Controllers. Maiwada added that any discrepancies discovered through post-clearance audits could result in demand notices for the recovery of short-collected duties and sanctions against offending operators. The NCS also reported that revenue collections at major ports have reached historic levels under the digital framework. Regarding recruitment, the Service stated that the exercise for Assistant Superintendents of Customs II was conducted with the authorisation of the Nigeria Customs Service Board and in line with the NCS Act, 2023, and Federal Character Commission guidelines. Successful candidates were issued provisional offers subject to medical verification, background checks, and formal acceptance. The Service rejected allegations of succession manipulation and favouritism, stating that promotions are based on seniority, merit, promotion examinations, and available vacancies in accordance with established regulations. 'Succession and promotion within the Service are governed by established rules and career progression structures, not personal preference,' Maiwada said. He also mentioned that leadership training for Deputy Comptrollers is part of the Service's human capital development strategy, aimed at strengthening trade operations, intelligence management, and executive leadership. The NCS assured Nigerians that it remains subject to oversight by the Federal Ministry of Finance, the National Assembly, the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation, and anti-corruption agencies. 'The management maintains a firm, intolerant posture toward corruption, revenue leakage, or administrative misconduct,' the Service stated, adding that any officer or stakeholder found culpable would face disciplinary action and prosecution in accordance with the law.