Nigeria Customs Service, Kwara Area Command generated the sum of N19.6bn into the coffers of the federal government in 2023.

The controller of Kwara Area Custom Command, Comptroller Kehinde Ilesanmi disclosed this in Ilorin, the state capital during an engagement meeting with some stakeholders to commemorate the International Customs Day.

“The Kwara area command successfully met its revenue target of N19.6 bn in the year 2023,” Ilesanmi said. He disclosed that the Customs headquarters has set a revenue target of N32 billion for the command this year.

He expressed the preparedness of the men of the command to meet the set target.

On the significance of International Customs Day, observed annually on January 26th, Ilesanmi underscored the pivotal role of Customs in shaping global trade and cooperation.

He highlighted the establishment of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) in 1952, noting that the day commemorates the anniversary of this intergovernmental body dedicated to enhancing customs administrations worldwide.

“International Customs Day serves as a reminder of the importance of global collaboration in trade operations. With 185 member countries, the WCO serves as a platform for nations to exchange best practices, standardize procedures, and collectively address the challenges of international trade dynamics,” he said.

Ilesanmi emphasised the necessity of a unified approach to customs operations, given the interconnectedness of global economies.

He stressed the importance of engaging stakeholders, both traditional and new, to foster cooperation and enhance customs operations in Kwara State.

The commemoration of International Customs Day provided an opportunity for stakeholders like Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Kwara Chambers of Commerce and Industry (KWACCIMA) among others to deliberate on strategies to improve customs operations in the state.