Deputy Minister for Finance Urges Customs Officers to Uphold Integrity in Revenue Mobilisation Efforts
The Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, has called on officers of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to recommit to integrity, vigilance, and professionalism, warning that corruption and fraud within the system directly undermine Ghana’s development and economic security.
Speaking at the commemoration of International Customs Day 2026 on Monday, January 26, Mr. Ampem said Customs remains central to protecting society, not only through revenue mobilisation but also by safeguarding the country from illicit trade and security threats.
International Customs Day, marked under the auspices of the World Customs Organization (WCO), was celebrated this year on the theme: “Customs Protecting Society through Vigilance and Commitment.” According to the Deputy Minister, the theme underscores the responsibility placed on Customs officers to remain alert, dedicated, and professional in the discharge of their duties.
Mr. Ampem noted that in an era of expanding global trade and increasingly complex security risks, the role of Customs extends beyond revenue collection to border protection and trade facilitation. He said Customs officers are expected to secure Ghana’s borders, ports, airports, and other entry points, while ensuring the smooth clearance of legitimate goods to support economic growth.
He commended the Customs Division of the GRA for its vigilance over the years, noting that its work has helped prevent the influx of illicit drugs, small arms and ammunition, counterfeit medicines, substandard goods, and environmentally harmful products, all of which pose serious risks to public health, national security, and economic stability.
While acknowledging the critical role of Customs, the Deputy Finance Minister stressed that protecting society is a shared responsibility, requiring strong collaboration among government institutions, security agencies, international organisations, the private sector, and civil society.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening Customs operations through policy reforms, digitalisation, and increased investment in modern infrastructure and technology, aimed at building a more efficient, professional, and responsive Customs administration.
Mr. Ampem emphasised that revenue mobilisation remains the backbone of government’s ability to deliver essential services, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, and sanitation. He noted that Customs makes a significant contribution to the overall revenue performance of the GRA and urged officers to support the attainment of the country’s revenue targets for the year.
He, however, issued a strong warning against corruption and fraud, stressing that revenue leakages come at a high cost to national development.
“We must take decisive steps to eradicate all forms of corruption and fraud, as every cedi lost represents a missed opportunity for national development,” he said.
According to him, revenue lost through corruption translates into unbuilt schools, poor road networks, inadequate healthcare, unsafe drinking water, and weak sanitation systems, all of which directly affect the wellbeing of citizens.
The Deputy Minister charged Customs officers to uphold the highest ethical standards, root out unethical behaviour at all levels, and exemplify transparency, accountability, and patriotism in service to the nation.
He concluded by underscoring that vigilance at Ghana’s ports and borders is critical to securing the country’s economic future, adding that the work of Customs officers remains vital to protecting society and safeguarding Ghana’s long-term development.
