The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Seme Area Command, Dr Ben Oramalugo, has underscored the importance of trade integrity, patriotism and collective responsibility in tackling the detrimental effects of smuggling on the economy and society.

Oramalugo stated this in his keynote address at the fifth session of the Redeemer’s University International Model United Nations Conference (RUIMUN) with the theme, ‘Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations’.

He also stressed the need for global development, nation-building, and policy advancement, emphasising the crucial role of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in national progress, contributions to trade facilitation, revenue generation, anti-smuggling efforts and national security.

The Customs boss warned about the risks associated with smuggled goods, such as fake drugs, second-hand clothing, and used tyres, which pose serious health and safety threats.

Oramalugo further stressed the need to support local industries, using Nigeria’s rice production as a case study.

He lamented that despite being a leading rice producer, Nigeria still struggles with low local patronage due to imported alternatives.

He urged Nigerians to embrace locally produced goods. “When we fail to buy local rice, we kill our factories.”

Oramalugo outlined three key NCS mandates, including simplifying customs processes to enhance legitimate trade and economic growth, contributing significantly to national revenue, with the NCS generating over N6 trillion in the past year.

Others are anti-smuggling and national security, by preventing the entry of prohibited and harmful goods while collaborating with other agencies to safeguard the nation.