Auctioneers Can Help Nigeria Earn Over N20Tn, Says Kiliya

The President of the Nigeria Association of Auctioneers (NAA) and Auctioneering Consultant, Alhaji Aliyu Kiliya, has stated that the Federal Government could generate over N20 trillion through the proper auctioning of seized and surplus properties.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Alhaji Kiliya criticized the current approach by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in auctioning confiscated goods.

He alleged that the Customs Service often allocates these goods for sale to unauthorized individuals, limiting the revenue potential.

“The way the Nigerian Customs are conducting auctions is not right; it undermines the country’s economic potential. If the judiciary, EFCC, ICPC, Navy, and other government agencies collaborate with the Nigeria Association of Auctioneers to auction their seized assets, the country would generate far more revenue,” he said.

He highlighted the case of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), which holds properties worth over N5 trillion that could contribute significantly to revenue generation if auctioned appropriately.

Alhaji Kiliya also commended government agencies, such as the EFCC and ICPC, for their partnership with the association.

He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct the Customs Service and other bodies to engage professional auctioneers to handle property sales, ensuring transparency and maximizing government revenue.

“The vandalism of unutilized properties, mounting debts, and missed revenue opportunities are some of the consequences of not implementing proper auctioning processes,” he added.

In a related development, Alhaji Kiliya disclosed that the presidency of the NAA would be zoned to the South-West after his tenure, while the Vice President position would go to the South-East, and the Secretary position to the North.

He emphasized the need for inclusivity in the association’s leadership to strengthen its operations nationwide.

He also praised state and zonal offices for their efforts in filling vacancies within the association and reiterated the association’s readiness to assist the Federal Government in achieving its revenue goals.

“As a professional body, the Nigeria Association of Auctioneers operates under strict regulations, and our members are law-abiding. We remain open to partnerships with organizations committed to Nigeria’s development,” he stated.

The Dan Maje of Birnin Magaji urged the public to support the association, stressing its critical role in the country’s economic progress.