[dropcap]I[/dropcap]n continuation of his sensitization program of critical stakeholders, the Coordinator Joint Border Operations Drill , Sector 3, North central Zone,Compt. Mohammed Uba Garba at the weekend met with Textiles, Shoes, Veils and Market Women Association, Kwara State Chapter.In an interactive session with the traders which was conducted in English and Yoruba languages, the Coordinator reminded the stakeholders on the essence of the border closure, saying that it is to encourage local farmers and local industries to strive and to provide job opportunities for youths while enhancing security across the nation.
According to Compt Uba, if the environment is not secured,revenue generation and collection will be a mirage for Nigeria Customs Service and the country. He explained that the major reason for the stakeholders meeting was to reemphasize his mission in the sector which is to enforce Federal Government directives and policies on the partial border closure.
He reiterated that movement of persons with valid travel documents from 6.am -6pm is still in enforce while illegal migration is being checked. He warned the association not to patronize or sell smuggled goods.
Compt Uba also advised textile materials dealers, buying their goods from Kano to always have a copy of Single Goods Declaration Form (SGD) used and ensure that they pay for their goods from the original importers to prevent their
goods being seized. He explained that Section- 147 of Customs and excise Law gives power to Customs officers to search and raid any premises suspected to be housing smuggled goods, as such, any shop, company or house identified to be stocked with smuggled goods will not be spared.
The Coordinator listed the achievement of sector 3 since border closure to include “Reduction in smuggling of illicit arms used for terrorism/crime,illegal drugs, and Sub-standard foods with potential to cause health hazards”
“Reduction in human/Child Trafficking and illegal migration. Reduction in the quantity of PMS consumed daily in Nigeria by about 10 million liters. This is presumed to be the average quantity of PMS usually smuggled from Nigeria daily into neighboring countries through the numerous petrol stations along the border communities”
“Increase in government revenue accrued from payment of Nigeria Customs Service duties. Provision of enabling environment to boost local production especially area of Agriculture”
“Enhancement of security across Kwara state/north central zone. Denial of freedom of movement to criminals and reduction in criminal activities and crime rate across the state and zone and Nigeria in general”
So far, he said the Sector 3 which covers Niger/Kwara/Kogi and Benue State has recorded the seizure of 12,255 Bags of Rice, 252,000 liters of PMS, 6,617 liters of AGO, 177 Vehicles, 80 Motorcycles, 160 Illegal Migrants, and 11 Illicit Weapons.
The estimated monetary value of the seized goods is put N703, 746,780.00.