The Trailblazer

  Dr. Ben Nkem Oramalugo PhD,FCIA, FNIM

  Area Controller Oyo/Osun Area Command

  Nigeria Customs Service

Seized wraps and sachets of Cannabis Sativa being handed over to NDLEA

Dr. Ben Oramalugo’s leadership at the Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has yielded unprecedented success in revenue generation and anti-smuggling efforts. Under his strategic guidance, the command recorded an impressive ₦18 billion in revenue between June and August 2024, despite economic challenges. Dr. Oramalugo’s commitment to innovation and collaboration, particularly with other security agencies, has also led to significant victories against smuggling, including the seizure of contraband worth ₦713 million. His ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver outstanding results showcases his exceptional leadership and dedication to Nigeria’s economic security.

Seized bales of used clothing being displayed by Dr. Ben Oramalugo

The Oyo/Osun Customs Command has continued to showcase efficiency and dedication. The  Command in its end of  August 2024 media briefing has made significant strides in revenue generation and anti-smuggling activities for the period spanning June 14 to August 29, 2024.

The Area Controller, Dr. Ben Oramalugo, PhD, FCIA, FNIM, provided a comprehensive overview of the command’s achievements during a media press briefing held at the operational headquarters in Ibadan. The briefing highlighted the command’s ability to navigate economic challenges while significantly boosting revenue and intensifying efforts against smuggling within the region.

Despite the prevailing economic conditions, the Oyo/Osun Area Command has demonstrated exceptional performance in revenue generation. According to Dr. Oramalugo, the command collected a total revenue of ₦13,311,191,473.12 for June and July 2024. Additionally, from August 1 to August 23, 2024, the command generated ₦4,767,776,213.37, bringing the total revenue for the period to a staggering ₦18,078,967,686.49.

Seized foreign bags of parboiled rice

When combined with the revenue generated between January and May 2024, the command has amassed a total of ₦48,743,215,625.64. This impressive figure represents a 2.74% increase compared to the ₦47,408,251,086.73 collected during the same period in 2023. Dr. Oramalugo attributed this success to enhanced monitoring and enforcement, strategic collaboration with stakeholders, and the adoption of technological advancements that have significantly reduced revenue leakages.

In its ongoing battle against smuggling, the Oyo/Osun Area Command has recorded significant successes. The command’s officers, displaying remarkable vigilance and commitment, intercepted and seized a wide range of contraband goods between June 14 and August 29, 2024. Among the seized items were:

Seized kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS)

753 kegs and 94 drums of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) totaling 40,915 liters, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦27,894,900.00.

2,448 wraps and 11 sachets of Cannabis Sativa weighing 2,020kg, valued at ₦148,932,000.00.

2,183 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each), valued at ₦192,104,000.00.

2,667 pieces of used tyres, valued at ₦254,839,500.00.

24 bales of used clothing, valued at ₦17,280,000.00.

A used Mazda 626 car, valued at ₦3,600,000.00.

A used pickup truck, valued at ₦7,700,000.00.

Two used DAF trucks, valued at ₦30,800,000.00 and ₦30,000,000.00 respectively.

The total DPV of these seized goods amounted to ₦713,150,400.00. These seizures, particularly the interception of large quantities of Cannabis Sativa, are considered a significant blow to smugglers and a triumph for lawful trade. Dr. Oramalugo emphasized that these achievements were made possible through strategic intelligence gathering, increased patrols, and a deep commitment to duty by the command’s officers.

The success of the Oyo/Osun Area Command’s operations is also attributed to its effective collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders. Dr. Oramalugo highlighted the interagency cooperation with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), which led to the approval for the command to hand over the intercepted Cannabis Sativa worth ₦148,932,000.00 to the NDLEA  Oyo State Command.

Moreover, the command has received approval to auction the seized Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) due to its inflammable nature, further contributing to the safety and economic stability of the region. Dr. Oramalugo reiterated the command’s commitment to leveraging technological innovations and strengthening its collaboration with sister agencies, stakeholders, and the public to combat smuggling and protect Nigeria’s economy from the adverse effects of illicit trade.

Looking ahead, the Oyo/Osun Area Command remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and service. Dr. Oramalugo assured that the command would continue to adopt innovative practices in line with the new NCS Act of 2023, further enhancing its operations and delivering on its mandate.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Oramalugo expressed profound gratitude to key stakeholders, including the Comptroller General of Customs, BA Adeniyi, MFR fniprpsc (+), the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, FNSE, traditional rulers in both Oyo and Osun States, sister security agencies, and other partners. Their continued support and collaboration have been instrumental in the command’s success, and Dr. Oramalugo looks forward to building on these achievements to overcome future challenges.

Seized Used Vehicle Tyres

One of the seized trucks