The Customs Comptroller for Adamawa and Taraba Command, Salisu Kazuare Abdullahi, has announced the deployment of heavily armed security personnel to safeguard all command facilities and ensure maximum protection. Speaking in Yola, Abdullahi addressed a recent incident where suspected hoodlums attempted to attack the command’s warehouse along Yola-Numan Road. He warned that anyone considering such actions would be embarking on a perilous journey.
Abdullahi emphasized that he would not stand by idly while miscreants attempt to destroy the command’s property. He issued a directive to his personnel to use firearms against anyone who poses a threat to their lives or government property. He attributed the behavior of these individuals to poor family training and reaffirmed his command’s readiness to confront any lawless individuals.
In terms of performance, Abdullahi revealed that the command had generated N82.082 million in revenue between May and July 2023. He highlighted the core responsibilities of the Nigeria Customs, including revenue collection, prevention of smuggling activities, and facilitation of legitimate trade to bolster local businesses.
Abdullahi pointed out that smuggling activities hinder the country’s industrial development and reiterated that it’s the constitutional duty of the Nigeria Customs to protect the business interests of Nigerians. He emphasized that Customs officers have been stationed across various locations to combat smuggling. If smugglers persist, the command will continue its pursuit and enforcement efforts.
Acknowledging the efforts of the new Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, in providing a conducive working environment for officers and personnel, Abdullahi pledged that his command would work within the legal framework to suppress smuggling activities and protect the region’s economic interests. Regarding seized vehicles whose owners have not come forward to claim them, the command will seek legal action through a court of competent jurisdiction and request approval from the Customs’ headquarters for their auction.
