By Bon Peter
ONNE, RIVERS STATE (CHATNEWSTV) — The Nigeria Customs Service Area II Command in Onne, Rivers State, has exceeded its 2024 annual revenue target by 103%, generating ₦634 billion—an increase of ₦321 billion from 2023’s revenue. The announcement was made Tuesday by Comptroller Mohammed Babandede during a year-end press briefing at the Command.
In addition to the revenue milestone, the Command intercepted 12 containers of illicit drugs valued at ₦20.3 billion. “This achievement underscores our commitment to public health and national security,” Babandede stated.
The seized items included:
•1,721,100 bottles of 100ml Cough Syrup Codeine
•510,000 tablets of 50mg Really Extra Diclofenac
•7,100,000 tablets of 225mg Tramadol
•3,461 pieces of sanitary ware fittings used for concealment
•840 pieces of chili cutters used for concealment
•153 cartons of TVS rubber
Babandede emphasized the importance of collaboration, thanking stakeholders and the media for supporting the Command’s anti-smuggling efforts. “Together, we can build a safer and healthier nation,” he said.
The Comptroller also highlighted the Command’s recognition as the best in anti-smuggling operations, bolstered by the Comptroller-General of Customs’ special promotions for outstanding officers. Eight officers received special promotions for their role in intercepting 844 rifles and 112,500 rounds of ammunition earlier in the year.
On the export front, the Command processed 2.7 million metric tonnes of goods worth $953 million (₦1.26 trillion). Key exports included sesame seeds, aluminum ingot, granular urea, and wheat bran.
Reflecting on the year, Babandede praised his officers for their dedication and vowed to sustain the momentum in 2025. “We look forward to achieving even greater results with purposeful engagement of stakeholders and partners,” he concluded.
Bon Peter reports from Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
