The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has appointed Comptroller Murtala Muazu as the new Controller in charge of the Apapa Command.
M,uazu has already-assumed office following the retirement of the former controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba.
During a brief takeover ceremony Muazu commended his predecessor for his achievements over during his years of service.
He promised to consolidate on the achievements recorded by the predecessor.
His words: “The gains recorded in revenue generation, enforcement, compliance and trade facilitation are worthy of recognition. We shall consolidate on these achievements and build upon the foundation already laid by you, while at the same time addressing the challenges that may still come with such.”
The new controller promised that the Command would give priority to the three policy goals of consolidation, collaboration and innovation as also the policy thrust of the Comptroller General of the Service, Dr. Adewale Adeniyi as far as its operations are concerned.
Muazu said, “Every revenue that is due to government must be properly assessed and collected, and every decision taken by our officers must be capable of standing the test of scrutiny over time.
“To achieve this, officers must be conversant with a harmonized system of clarification customs valuation and its processes, as well as fiscal policy measures, amongst others. These are core requirements in the discharge of our duties and responsibilities, and stand at the forefront of our revenue and compliance objectives.”
The new controller warned against unnecessary delays in the process of cargo clearing, adding that such delays as non-tariff barriers would no longer be tolerated.
He said, “Where examination or observation is required, it must be carried out promptly and in accordance with laid-down procedures and guidelines. Where all requirements have been met, legitimate cargo must be allowed to move without avoidable obstructions.”
He gave assurances of his readiness for collaboration with stakeholders in a bid to promote trade facilitation.
