At the Redeemer’s University International Model United Nations (RUIMUN) Conference, Comptroller Benjamin Oramalugo highlights the Nigeria Customs Service’s(NCS)roles in national development
By Edu Abade
The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller Benjamin Oramalugo has highlighted the critical role of the Service in national development through trade facilitation, revenue generation, anti-smuggling activities and national security.
Oramalugo, who was guest speaker at the fifth Session of the Redeemer’s University International Model United Nations (RUIMUN) Conference which held from March 3, 2025 to March 6, 2025, stressed the importance of integrity, patriotism and the detrimental effects of smuggling on the economy and society
The conference with the theme: “Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations”, provided a platform for insightful discussions on global development and nation-building.
Speaking on the “Economic Impact of Smuggling”, Comptroller Oramalugo stressed the need to support local industries, citing Nigeria’s status as a leading producer of rice yet facing challenges in local patronage, saying: “When we fail to buy local rice, we kill our factories.”
He also warned about the dangers of smuggled fake drugs, second hand clothing, used tyres and other un-customs goods which pose severe health and safety risks.
On the role of Customs in nation-building, he outlined three core mandates of the NCS to include trade facilitation: Simplifying customs processes to enhance legitimate trade and economic growth; Revenue Generation: Contributing significantly to national revenue, with the NCS generating over ₦6 trillion in 2024.
He also explained that the NCS engages in Anti-smuggling and National Security by preventing the entry of prohibited and harmful goods while collaborating with other agencies to safeguard the nation, as well as ensuring global standards and best practices, citing the Arusha Declaration and other international conventions, stressing their role in enhancing customs integrity, harmonizing procedures and combating illicit activities.
Oramalugo, who commended the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, described him as “the best CGC in Africa” due to his numerous achievements and recognition, including “Outstanding Revenue Collection” Award by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the recent Sun Newspaper’s “Best Public Servant of the Year” award, among others.
He also applauded Redeemer’s University for the opportunity to engage with young leaders and enlighten them on the contributions of the Nigeria Customs Service to national progress.
