Customs vigilance key to curbing drugs – Finance Ministry

Customs vigilance remains critical to preventing illicit drugs and other dangerous goods from entering Ghana, Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem has said.

Mr Ampem made the remarks at the commemoration of International Customs Day 2026, marking a global observance led by the World Customs Organization to recognise the work of Customs administrations.

He said the theme for the celebration, “Customs Protecting Society through Vigilance and Commitment,” underscored the growing responsibility placed on Customs officers in an era of expanding global trade and complex security threats.

“The work of Customs goes beyond revenue collection,” he said, noting that officers play a frontline role in safeguarding borders, ports, airports, and other entry points.

According to him, sustained vigilance by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority has helped shield the country from illicit drugs, small arms and ammunition, counterfeit pharmaceuticals, substandard goods, and environmentally harmful products.

“These threats, if left unchecked, undermine public health, national security, and economic stability,” he stated.

Mr Ampem stressed that while Customs remains central to national safety, protecting society requires strong collaboration.

“It requires partnerships across government institutions, security agencies, international organisations, the private sector and civil society,” he said.

He assured Customs officers of government support, indicating that the Ministry of Finance would pursue policy reforms aimed at strengthening capacity, deepening digitalisation and expanding investment in modern infrastructure and technology.

“Our goal is to build a Customs administration that is efficient, professional, and responsive, while ensuring a secure and safe environment for all stakeholders,” he said.

On revenue mobilisation, the Deputy Finance Minister described revenue as the lifeblood of the nation, linking it directly to the government’s ability to provide infrastructure, education, and healthcare. He acknowledged the significant contribution of Customs to the Ghana Revenue Authority’s revenue targets and urged officers to support the attainment of this year’s goals.

He also issued a strong warning against corruption, saying, “Every cedi lost represents a missed opportunity for national development.”

He added that revenue lost through fraud translates into unbuilt schools, poor roads, and inadequate healthcare.

Mr Ampem called on Customs officers to rededicate themselves to integrity, patriotism, and transparency, describing their work as vital to protecting society and safeguarding Ghana’s economic future.