Comptroller Joseph Attah of Customs Area Controller, Kebbi Command has alleged that despite the ban placed on vehicle importation through land borders by the federal government, the act persists.
In a display session of seized items including a 2021 Model Toyota Hilux in Birnin Kebbi, Comptroller Attah reminded vehicle importers to comply with the federal government policy on restriction of vehicle importation to seaports.
According to a statement released on Thursday by Nasiru Manga, the Public Relations Officer, Kebbi Area Command, the Comptroller expressed the determination of the service to deal decisively with smugglers stating that although a smuggler might succeed in the interim, they will be caught and made to face justice, hence, harping on the need for importers to engage in legitimate trade.
Comptroller Attah further revealed that the reopening of the Kamba Border had enhanced the revenue generation drive of the Command adding that after surmounting initial challenges which included the ICT reactivation and engagement of Nigerien Douane to smoothing the passage of common stakeholders, the border was ready for business.
He expressed optimism in the Command generating even higher revenue in future, stating that the Command had so far generated Ninety-Eight Million, Four Hundred and Thirteen Thousand, Nine Hundred and Sixty-Three Naira (N98, 413, 963) only as revenue from imports and had facilitated the export of 7,377 metric tons of local goods. Items exported include coal, onions, pepper, and ginger among others.
Attah assured stakeholders of the readiness of his command to facilitate trade, warning that any attempt to short-change the government will be resisted.