Worried by illegal smuggling of natural resources causing significant revenue loss, the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, NMGS, is seeking stronger collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service.
NMGS President, Professor Akinade Olatunji on an advocacy visit to Customs Headquarters in Abuja, emphasised the urgent need to strengthen the capacity of Customs officers to identify and safeguard natural resources.
“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,” Olatunji stated.
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.
“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,” Adeniyi said.
Both parties made commitments to work together in safeguarding Nigeria’s natural resources and boosting economic growth.
Credible News recalls that the Nigeria Customs Services recently sealed similar collaboration agreements with National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control.
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