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By Steve Agbota
In keeping with its growing role as a critical trade hub amongst the maritime Commands in Lagos, the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Area Command (KLTC) of the Nigeria Customs Service said it intercepted a 1 x 40ft container of expired drugs and supplements and generated N53.4 billion revenue in 2023.
This was made known in a press statement issued by the Command Public Relations Officer, SC Tunde Ayagbalo on behalf the Customs Area Controller,
Comptroller Martina Tilley-Gyado said the Command recorded significant achievements in 2023 and is determined to deliver on its responsibilities to its stakeholders and the nation in the new year.
According to the statement, the Command under the watch of the Customs Area Controller, through dedication, innovation, and strategic partnerships overcame its operational challenges to generate a record-breaking N53.429 billion in 2023, which represents a 19 per cent increase in revenue realised for the same period in 2022.
Though not operating at full capacity, the Controller said the Command is dedicated to delivering on its 2024 target of N87.5 billion.
“Under export, KLTC transformed from a simple export transit hub to a bustling processing centre after the arrival of its Export Processing Terminal (EPT). Since implementing standardized procedures, the innovation has seen to the export of 399 containers of agro products and solid mineral in 2023, marking a significant shift in its operations.
“Furthermore, the Command undertook several key activities that impacted positively on the revenue drive for the period under review. These include: processing and clearance of import and export shipments and conducting risk assessment analysis to ensure compliance with trade regulations.
“Engagement with critical stakeholders to enhance and facilitate legitimate trade, collaborating with other government and security agencies to enhance security. Proper physical examination of containers. Boosting staff morale through upgrading the workspace environment and maintaining proper sanitation,” she said.
In the same vein, she said the Command made a seizure of a 1 x 40ft container of expired drugs and supplements with the duty paid value of the seizure amounts to N7.843 million.
While not oblivious to the operational challenges faced in 2023, Comptroller Tilley-Gyado affirms that the unwavering support and guidance of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the management team of the Service have been instrumental in achieving the feats.
While expressing her gratitude for their support, she reaffirms the commitment of officers and men of KLTC to continuously improving on the Command’s mandate.
She also extends her gratitude to all esteemed stakeholders for their contributions to making 2023 a remarkable year and looks forward to a better 2024.
