In a significant interception, the Nigeria Customs Service Area Controller for Oyo/Osun, Dr. Ben Oramalugo, announced the seizure of counterfeit pharmaceuticals valued at N1,739,000,000.00. The contraband, including Augmentin tablets, Ampiclox, and Amoxycillin capsules, were concealed within 53 sacks.
Oramalugo disclosed this during the second press conference of 2024 held at the operational headquarters of the command in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, on Thursday.
Providing further details, the Oyo/Osun Customs Controller revealed that between February 1 and 27, 2024, the command collected a total of N5,664,295,751.15. When combined with the collection from January 2024, the cumulative revenue for the fiscal year amounted to N12,489,250,090.11.
Aside from the pharmaceuticals, the command seized various other contraband items, including 345 (50kg) bags of foreign parboiled rice, 344 (25 litres) kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Cannabis Sativa, used tyres, foreign wine, and used clothing and shoes.
Oramalugo emphasized the command’s commitment to revenue generation and anti-smuggling efforts amidst economic challenges, citing diligent work by officers to uphold the mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service.
In light of emerging economic challenges and attempts to compromise border integrity, the controller highlighted the strategic positioning of anti-smuggling activities to enforce the Federal Government’s border closure policy effectively.
He expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, BA Adeniyi, and other stakeholders for their support, including sister security agencies such as the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, NDLEA, Oyo State Operation Burst, and Amotekun Corps.
Oramalugo also extended appreciation to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and other stakeholders for their collaborative efforts in addressing challenges and ensuring the success of the Nigeria Customs Service in Oyo and Osun states.
