TheCable

The Nigeria Customs Service says the revenue recorded from January to June 2017 increased by N101 billion from the revenue generated in the same period in 2016.

The agency, which recorded N898 billion in revenues for 2016, lowered its target to N772 billion for 2017, but its current momentum shows it may record the highest revenue in its history by the end of 2017.

In a statement signed by Joseph Attah, public relations officer, the agency said it is determined to raise its 2017 revenue target of N772 billion.

“The service collected a total sum of N486.7 billion between January to June 2017 as against N385.7 billion collected in the same period last year,” the statement released on Thursday read.

“The half year collection demonstrates NCS determination to meet the 2017 revenue target of N772.8 billion despite the challenging economic environmment with negative consequences on international trade.”

According to the statement, Hameed Ali, Customs comptroller general, has ordered the dismantling of all illegal check points.

“In line with the presidential enabling business environmnet council (PEBEC) drive to ease ways of doing business in Nigeria, the comptroller-general of Customs, Hameed Ali, has directed the immediate dismantling of all illegal check points.

“The CGC reminded all commands that any check point mounted outside 40 kilometres to the land border is illegal, while information patrols beyond 40km limit should not last more than 24 hours at any given time.

“The 40km radius applies to land borders, while no check point should be erected within the port areas.”