NMGS Solicits For Partnership With Customs To Combat Smuggling Of Natural Resources
NMGS Solicits For Partnership With Customs To Combat Smuggling Of Natural Resources
By Asuquo Nuwak
The Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) has called for stronger collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to address the rising threat of illegal smuggling of natural resources, which is causing significant revenue loss and depletion of critical raw materials.
The President of Nigerian Mining and Geoscience Society (NMGS), Professor Akinade Olatunji, who disclosed this during his visit to the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters in Abuja, on 21 November 2024, also emphasised the urgent need to strengthen the capacity of Customs officers to identify and safeguard natural resources.
Professor Olaunji is quoted as saying that: “We are aware of the vast quantities of resources leaving the country illegally. These finite assets must be protected. Collaborating with agencies at the exit points will ensure proper documentation, revenue remittance, and duty payments”.
In his response, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, acknowledged the expertise of NMGS and highlighted opportunities for collaboration. He pledged to prioritise officer training and joint efforts to curb the smuggling of raw materials.
Comptroller-General Adeniyi is quoted as saying that: “Illicitly smuggled resources flow out of the country without proper checks. Through rigorous monitoring and accurate documentation, we can close gaps in export taxation, track resource destinations, and ensure appropriate revenue is generated”.
The meeting ended with a commitment from both parties to work together in safeguarding Nigeria’s natural resources and boosting economic growth.
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