Story by Dili Utomi.
The Kirirkiri Lighter Terminal Comand of the Nigeria Customs Service in keeping with its growing role as a critical trade hub amongst the maritime commands in Lagos recorded significant achievements in 2023 and is determined to deliver on its responsibilities to its stakeholders and the nation in the new year.
A press statement released by the Command’s public relations officer, Superintendent of Customs, Tunde Ayagbalo says that the Command under the watch of the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Martina Tilley-Gyado, through dedication, innovation, and strategic partnerships overcame its operational challenges to generate a record-breaking fifty-three billion, four hundred and twenty-nine million, six hundred and fifteen thousand, six hundred and fifteen Naira (=N=53,429,615,615) only in 2023. This represents a 19% increase in revenue realised for the same period in 2022. Though not operating at full capacity, the Command is dedicated to delivering on its 2024 target of 87.5 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 standardised 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. They include:
Processing and clearance of import and export shipments
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.
In the same vein, the Command made a seizure of a 1 x 40ft container of expired drugs and supplements. The duty paid value of the seizure amounts to seven million, eight hundred and forty-three thousand, nine hundred and fifty-seven (#7,843,957.00) Naira.
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 MFR, 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.
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