Customs Command Humongous Revenue Records: The Lamb And The Wolves.

By Helen Udo,Outlook Media ABUJA.

In a remarkable turn of events, the Apapa Customs Command has reported unprecedented revenue figures, raising eyebrows and sparking debates across Nigeria. The command, often seen as the lamb in the complex web of Nigeria’s maritime industry, has now emerged as a formidable force, collecting a staggering N1.02 trillion in revenue between January and June 2024. This represents a 143% increase compared to the N421 billion collected in the same period in 2023.

Despite the impressive revenue records, there are whispers of wolves lurking in the shadows.These wolves are within and without who are hell bent in ensuring that Apapa’s impressive revenue profile is truncated. The significant increase in revenue has not come without its challenges. The Customs Area Controller, Babatunde Olomu, has been vocal about the measures taken to prevent revenue leakages and combat smuggling.

The command intercepted 11 containers of prohibited consignments, including expired pharmaceuticals and unfit poultry products. These efforts highlight the ongoing battle against corruption and unprofessional conduct within the ports.
Our findings reveal that these successes could not have been possible without a capable ,honest , and dedicated officer like Deputy comptroller of customs DC , Frank Onyenka,who has been scrupulous and meticulous in handling the Apapa Exit gate.

Before his arrival at Apapa port, DC Onyenka had served as O/C Gate at Onne port in Port Harcourt ,where he won the “Best Revenue officer” of the Command in 2022. I is this display of high level of integrity, honesty, dexterity, dedication to duty and reliability that made the Customs high Command to consider him worthy to take charge as O/C Gate ,Apapa port. And ever since, DC Onyenka has continually proven the Customs high Command right in their choice of him manning the premier port.

DC Frank Onyenka came to Apapa Exit Gate as O/C gate and changed the narrative there. He brought along, so many innovations and changes, all which are contributory to the present high revenue figures of the command.

For instance, before his arrival,at Apapa port, personal unaccompanied Baggage declaration (PUBD), was zero naira, and no general performing examination was carried out and the wolves were smiling to the banks but due to his intervention and insistence, examination is now being carried and this yielded dividends.

Suffices to say that 23-30% of revenue which accrued to the command last August,2023, came in through this channel via the intervention of DC Onyenka,with tacit support of the Apapa Area Comptroller.

It is not surprising that DC Onyenka’s revolution at Apapa Exit would meet with stern resistance,as some unscrupulous elements within the system are conniving to thwart and pervert revenue generation, by bleeding the system of accruable revenue, why trying to brow beat the general public by orchestrating a campaign of calumny against the O/C Gate, DC Onyenka, which is tantamount to giving dog a bad name in order to hang it.

Our findings further revealed that despite the acrimonious campaign against DC Onyenka, he is in line to be rewarded by the command for his 100,000,000 million Naira intervention by the Apapa Command which replicates record at Onne Area 11.

DC Onyenka, we further gathered, is a people’s person. He is unassuming, very practical and passionate about his job. A thorough bred professional, who is friendly and also very strict and knows where and when to draw the line when it comes to official duties.

Those close to this exceptional and hardworking officer describe him as no nonsense man ,who pays keen attention to details and very meticulous when it comes to documentation.Some described him as revenue centric: one who would not compromise on his stance.

DC Onyenka is also a very compassionate leader who cares much about those working with him.Before his arrival at Apapa Exit gate as O/C gate ,the place was chaotic as there were always crowds around the office.

Today, the usual chaotic situation at the place has been brought under control as DC Onyenka has created a conductive atmosphere to facilitate trade by constructing quarter cabins to make the offices conducive for customs officers,amongst others.

Indeed, one clearing agent who would not want his name mentioned told our reporter that those who are carrying this campaign of calumny against DC Onyenka, whom he described as a very efficient fearless officer are people who are afraid of him, knowing he would not compromise, and would always stand against revenue leakage and loss. Therefore, ffor this reason, they want him out so they can always have their way.Because they see him as a stumbling block” the cleaning agent said.

The Apapa Customs Command’s success is not just in the numbers but in the strategies employed. The implementation of the Time Release Study (TRS) initiative and the establishment of a revenue recovery committee have played crucial roles in this achievement. The command’s dedication to thorough inspections and the use of scanners to prevent illicit trade has been pivotal.

While the revenue figures are impressive, they also raise questions about the broader implications for Nigeria’s economy. The increase in revenue collection, despite a reduction in trade volume, suggests a more efficient and vigilant customs operation. However, it also underscores the need for continuous vigilance and integrity in the face of potential corruption.

The Apapa Customs Command’s record-breaking revenue collection is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its officers, particularly the Officer in Charge of the Apapa Exit Gate,DC Frank Onyenka. Yet, it also serves as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead.

As the lamb navigates the territory of wolves, the Apapa command must remain steadfast in its commitment to transparency and accountability. Only then can it truly transform Nigeria’s maritime industry and set a new standard for customs operations nationwide. Source:factualng.com.