Lagos: The Customs Area Controller, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Murtala Muhammed Area Command (MMA), Comptroller Michael Awe, announced that the command generated N97.1 billion in the second quarter of the year. Awe shared these figures during a news conference held in Lagos, highlighting the command's improved revenue performance compared to the second quarter of 2024. According to News Agency of Nigeria, the revenue for the current period exceeded the N80.3 billion recorded in the second quarter of 2024, marking a 20.92 percent increase. This growth is attributed to the command's enhanced operational strategies and increased stakeholder compliance. Awe expressed gratitude to compliant importers, exporters, and clearing agents for their continued support in achieving revenue targets. In the past six months, the command intercepted various goods, including 18 Tippmann Semi-Automatic Calibre Mag-Fed Paintball Markers and 32 empty Tippmann Tank Cylinders, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N18.3 million. Othe r intercepted items included 20 Ballistic Helmets valued at N2.6 million and 75 bags of pangolin scales weighing 3,765kg, valued at N772.3 million. The total DPV of these seizures stands at N792.7 million. These actions were the result of robust intelligence gathering, heightened surveillance, and the dedication of customs officers. The command also intercepted two live pangolins, which were relocated to a suitable habitat in the Igebti area of Oyo. Meanwhile, the Tippmann Semi-Automatic Calibre Mag-Fed Paintball Markers were sent to the police for further investigation. Awe assured the public of the command's commitment to curbing unlawful trade and enforcing all applicable laws with integrity and zero tolerance for smuggling. Awe emphasized the importance of enhancing relationships with stakeholders as a critical pillar of their success. He noted that customs had maintained strong relationships with stakeholders through regular interactions, information sharing, and mutual cooperation, resulting in faster decision-making and improved operational outcomes. To foster inter-agency collaboration, the command initiated a sporting competition in the second quarter. This event promoted physical fitness, mental alertness, and camaraderie among personnel and stakeholders, featuring games such as badminton, table tennis, volleyball, draft, and football. The introduction of these activities has proven effective in boosting physical fitness, reducing stress, and fostering unity. Awe reiterated the command's commitment to enhancing revenue collection, intensifying the fight against smuggling, and deepening collaboration with stakeholders. He assured the public of the command's dedication to delivering efficient and responsive service, safeguarding national interests, and upholding high standards of professionalism and transparency. Awe also commended the support of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, and the entire management team for their unwavering support and visionary leadership. Dr. Jonathan Dajal, Dir ector of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) Liaison Office Lagos, praised NCS for protecting Nigerians through their operations. He emphasized the importance of environmental protection and urged Nigerians to assist customs in achieving its mandate. Mr. Ashiru Balogun, Chairman of the MMA Command of the National Association of Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), also commended customs for their achievements. He noted the increase in revenue demonstrated stakeholder compliance and urged customs to inform the government to allocate a percentage of the revenue to customs brokers for member training improvements.