By Roland Ekama
Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, PhD, the Customs Area Controller of the Seme Area Command, was a distinguished speaker at the 5th session of the Redeemer’s University International Model United Nations Conference (RUIMUN) from 3rd to 6th March 2025.
Themed “Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations,” the conference provided a platform for insightful discussions on global development and nation-building.
In his address, Comptroller Oramalugo highlighted the critical role of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in national development, emphasizing trade facilitation, revenue generation, Anti-smuggling activities and National security.
According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer Seme Command NSC , Chief Superintendent of Customs, Isah Suleiman on Tuesday 4 March 2025,Comptroller Oramalugo
spoke passionately about the importance of integrity, patriotism, and the detrimental effects of smuggling on the economy and society.
Highlighting key Insights from his speech- the statement focused on Economic Impact of Smuggling: where Comptroller Oramalugo stressed the need to support local industries, citing Nigeria’s status as a leading rice producer yet facing challenges in local patronage. “When we fail to buy local rice, we kill our factories,” he remarked. He also warned about the dangers of smuggled fake drugs, second hand clothing, used tyres and other “un-customs” goods which pose severe health and safety risks.
On the role of Customs in Nation-Building: He outlined three core mandates of the NCS:
which according to him, are trade facilitation by simplifying customs processes to enhance legitimate trade and economic growth.
Revenue Generation: which he noted has contributed significantly to national revenue, with the NCS generating over ₦6 trillion last year and anti-smuggling and national security: whereby preventing the entry of prohibited and harmful goods while collaborating with other agencies to safeguard the nation.
On global standards and best practices, the customs boss referenced the Arusha Declaration and other international conventions, emphasizing their role in enhancing customs integrity, harmonizing procedures, and combating illicit activities.
During an interview at the event, Comptroller Oramalugo praised the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, describing him as “the best CGC in Africa.” He commended the CGC’s numerous achievements and recognition, including “Outstanding Revenue Collection” Award by the Nigeria President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the recent Sun Newspaper’s “Best Public Servant of the Year” award.
Comptroller Oramalugo expressed his gratitude to Redeemer’s University for the opportunity to engage with young leaders and enlighten them on the vital contributions of the Nigeria Customs Service to national progress.
