IMAN PLEDGES CONTINUED COLLABORATION WITH FG IN CURBING ILLEGAL IMPORTATION, RELATED CRIMES
*** Commends Apapa CAC, Olomu, for commiting to anti smuggling campaign
By Mcanthony Onuoha
The importers association of Nigeria (IMAN) has expressed its unwavering commitment to assisting the federal government in the ongoing fight against illegal importation, substandard and adulterated goods, false declaration, illegal arms trade etc.
(Dr. George Ndubisi, Vice President, IMAN)
During a recent Stakeholders meeting, IMAN underscored the importance of collaboration between importers, government agencies, and security forces to ensure the security, safety, and economic stability of Nigeria. The association emphasized that legitimate importers adhere strictly to standards, commit to ethical business practices, as well as support initiatives aimed at curbing illicit activities.
According to the Vice President of IMAN, Dr. George Ndubisi, “Importers Association of Nigeria stands firmly with the federal government in its efforts to curb illegal imports, and ensure that only quality and genuine goods enter our markets. We shall continue to work with the government to strengthen enforcement, enhance customs procedures and foster a transparent importation process”. Ndubisi assured.
The Vice President of IMAN also called for increased awareness campaign to educate importers and the general public about the dangers associated with substandard and adulterated products, false declaration, as well as illegal arms trading.
CAC Apapa Command, Compt. Babatunde Olomu, displaying the seizures on Thursday.
IMAN has commended the Customs Area Controller of Apapa Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu and his team, for their commitment to frustrating the activities of smugglers who import unwholesome products, especially, illicit drugs into the country through Apapa port. The association described Comptroller Olomu as a patriotic Nigerian who understands the level of health and mental damage as well as security risk smugglers of illicit drugs are causing Nigeria and Nigerians
On Thursday, 22nd of May, Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs displayed before the media, six containers laden with prohibited items, mostly unregistered pharmaceuticals and handed same to personnel of the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA.
Addressing journalists, the Customs Area Controller of Apapa Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, stated that, “as a result of our painstaking efforts, we recently uncovered 6 more containers laden with prohibited items mostly unregistered pharmaceuticals. Other items in the seized containers are cosmetics, used clothing and two vehicles illegally imported into the country. These seizures are worth a total DPV: N3,247,427,969.00 (Three billion, Two hundred and forty-seven million, Four hundred and twenty-seven thousand Nine hundred and sixty-nine naira).”
The association reaffirmed its commitment to promoting trade practices that support Nigerian economic growth, and urged Operatives of the Customs at various commands, Border Stations and all entry points, not to relent in their efforts.
