Seme Customs Controller, Oramalugo engages youth on Customs operations at RUIMUN conference

Controller, Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, PhD, has highlighted the critical role of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in national development, with focus on trade facilitation, revenue generation, anti-smuggling activities and national security.

Oramalugo who delivered an address at the ongoing 5th session of the Redeemer’s University International Model United Nations Conference (RUIMUN) which commenced on Monday spoke about the importance of integrity, patriotism, and the detrimental effects of smuggling on the economy and society.

Speaking under the conference’s theme”Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations,” Oramalugo stressed the need to support local industries, citing Nigeria’s status as a leading rice producer.

“Nigeria’s is a leading rice producer yet facing challenges in local patronage. When we fail to buy local rice, we kill our factories,” he remarked.

The controller also warned about the dangers of smuggled fake drugs, second hand clothing, used tyres and other un-customs goods which pose severe health and safety risks.

He reiterared the NCS’s commitment to preventing the entry of prohibited and harmful goods while collaborating with other agencies to safeguard the nation.

He also noted the Service significant contribution to national revenue with the collection of N6trillion last year.

He added that Customs is also saddled with the responsibility of simplifying processes to enhance and facilitate legitimate trade and economic growth.

He referenced the Arusha Declaration and other international conventions, emphasizing their role in enhancing customs integrity, harmonizing procedures, and combating illicit activities.

During an interview at the event, Comptroller Oramalugo praised the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi describing him as “the best CGC in Africa.”

He commended the CGC’s numerous achievements and recognition, including “Outstanding Revenue Collection” Award by the Nigeria President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the recent Sun Newspaper’s “Best Public Servant of the Year” award.

Comptroller Dr. Oramalugo expressed his gratitude to Redeemer’s University for the opportunity to engage with young leaders and enlighten them on the vital contributions of the Nigeria Customs Service to national progress.

This information was contained in a press statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Isah Sulaiman.