Customs says attacks on personnel have forced some commands to scale back operations across the North-West.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has raised concerns over the impact of insecurity on its operations and revenue generation, saying attacks and threats against personnel have forced some commands to adopt more cautious approaches.
The Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs and Zonal Coordinator, Zone B, Nsikak Umoh, disclosed this in Minna while inspecting the Niger/Kogi Area Command headquarters and engaging vehicle importers on operational challenges facing the command.
Umoh said the security challenge was affecting several Customs formations across the North-West, including Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina and Zamfara states.
She said some Customs officers had been killed or injured while performing their duties, forcing affected commands to reduce their activities or operate more cautiously.
According to her, the development had contributed to declining revenue collections in some areas as officers increasingly relied on intelligence-led operations to minimise risks.
Umoh also expressed concern over the physical and psychological effects of insecurity on Customs personnel, saying some officers had developed health conditions, including hypertension, due to the fear and stress associated with their duties.
Despite the challenges, she said the Niger/Kogi Area Command had continued to perform strongly, surpassing its monthly revenue target of ₦17 million.
The command generated more than ₦200 million as of August 12, Umoh disclosed, commending Customs personnel and stakeholders for sustaining revenue collection despite the difficult operating environment.