By Dare Akogun
The Nigeria Customs Service has called on traditional institutions in the state to support the service on its fight against smuggling activities.
The Kwara Customs Area Controller, Kehinde Ilesanmi, made the request when he paid a visit to the Emir of Ilorin and the Chairman Traditional Council of Chiefs, Kwara State, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu Gambari to chart a course where such partnerships would help curb smuggling.
In his brief remarks, the Comptroller solicited for partnership and collaboration with the Emir in ensuring that the state understands the role of Customs as partners in progress by way of public enlightenment, education and sensitisation of other stakeholders in order to achieve total compliance by citizens who import and export goods.
The Customs boss acknowledged the critical role traditional institutions can play especially in the areas of sensitisation and enlightenment of their subjects, Stakeholders and the society at large.
Ilesanmi disclosed that the service is working tirelessly to curb illicit trade in the country in order to promote economic growth and development.
He said the decision of the Federal Government to ban importation of some food items into the country, most especially rice, was not to witch hunt anyone but to encourage Nigerian farmers and boost local production.
While advocating for total compliance with the Federal Government directives, he reiterated that Kwara State land border is still closed.
In his response, the Emir assured the Customs Area Controller of his continuous royal support for the Command to enable him and the management team achieve the mandate of revenue generation, trade facilitation and anti smuggling operations.
Alhaji Sulu Gambari pledged to enhance the already existing cordial relationship between the palace and the command.
