Ban on rice importation subsists, says Kwara Customs boss

The Comptroller of Customs, Kwara Area Command, Kehinde Ilesanmi, has said that ban on importation of foreign rice has not been lifted.

At a press briefing in Ilorin, yesterday, the Customs boss said his command would continue to enforce the policy until the country realises the reasons for its declaration.

Kwara Command, at the end of June, reportedly generated N6.2 billion.

“The Federal Government policies on agricultural development in the area of boosting local rice production sustained the fight against smuggling activities and fuelled our resolve to do more.

“I assure you that the fight will continue with sustained momentum, and determination to make more seizure.”

Reiterating the Customs’ core mandate of preventing economic sabotage, the Area Comptroller said his command has devised modern strategies to boost its operational mode.

He noted: “The result of our anti-smuggling activities, coupled with the Command’s renewed drive in utilisation of cutting edge strategies led to 56 seizures of different.”

The impounded items include nine used vehicles of different types, 813 50kg bags of foreign rice, 24,950 litres of petroleum product in 998 jerry cans and 14 kegs of vegetable oil of 25 litres each.

He praised the foresight of the Comptroller-General of Customs for effective leadership, noting that officers and other ranks would, at all times, ensure implementation of the Customs’ most superior boss’ directives.

Ilesanmi stated:“The seizures were successfully accomplished as a result of the renewed determination of Customs CG, Bashir Adeniyi, to rid the country of all forms of illegal importation.

“These positive harvests in the areas of anti-smuggling and revenue generation are a clear testimony of what can be achieved under a brand new leadership of the Service.”

He canvassed more synergies with the media and urged the public to continue giving officers of his command useful information that could lead to the smashing of smuggling syndicates.

In his maiden press briefing, the CG had declared that his tenure would witness remarkable transformation by spearheading innovative projects to unlock the full potential of the Service with strong focus on collaborations, engagement with international organisations, pursuit of cutting-edge technologies that will enhance revenue generation and streamline processes that will strengthen the Service as a crucial contributor to national economy and security.

“I would like to send a note of warning to economic saboteurs to steer clear of Kwara Area Command and engage in meaningful ventures or they will meet their waterloo.

“I commend the patriotic collaboration and tremendous assistance we always receive from traditional leaders, eminent personalities, some host communities and members of the press in our resolute drive against smuggling in the overall interest of our dear nation,” he added.