The Apapa Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded an impressive revenue collection of N1.61 trillion as of the end of the third quarter of 2024.
This figure, according to the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, significantly surpasses the N1.17 trillion collected throughout the entirety of 2023.
The result demonstrates a sharp uptick in revenue generation attributed to diligent efforts and strategic engagement with stakeholders.
Speaking on the revenue milestone, Comptroller Olomu emphasized that the increase reflects the command’s commitment to integrity and transparency in its operations. He noted that two months in particular—July and September 2024—yielded particularly impressive revenue, with collections of N201.8 billion and N193.9 billion, respectively. The CAC expressed confidence that these figures could be replicated in the upcoming final quarter of the year, which begins in October.
Comptroller Olomu attributed part of the success to several trade facilitation initiatives introduced under the leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR. These include the implementation of an advance ruling system, a time release study, and the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) scheme. The CAC emphasized that these measures are essential for improving customs efficiency, ensuring seamless trade operations, and fostering compliance with import and export regulations, all of which positively impact Nigeria’s economy.
“We have achieved this impressive revenue collection through a diligent examination process and prompt interventions such as the issuance of demand notices where necessary,” said Olomu. “We are committed to ensuring that our anti-smuggling activities maintain the same level of rigor.”
He further pointed out that the command has witnessed a significant decline in smuggling activities due to heightened compliance measures. Comptroller Olomu explained that the command’s anti-smuggling operations are bolstered by constant monitoring of cargoes, profiling of port users, and continuous sensitization of stakeholders. Additionally, the command has placed a strong emphasis on the in-house training and retraining of customs officers to stay ahead of evolving smuggling tactics.
“Our strict monitoring systems and profiling procedures have paid off in terms of compliance and the resulting reduction in smuggling within our area of control,” he said. The CAC highlighted that the synergy between customs and other government agencies has been instrumental in combating illegal activities. “We share intelligence, conduct joint cargo examinations, and adhere to the standard operating procedures to ensure that criminal elements are rooted out,” he added.
Olomu reassured stakeholders—including licensed customs agents, freight forwarders, importers, exporters, and haulage operators—of the command’s readiness to assist at all times. He encouraged port users to utilize the services of the dispute resolution team to resolve any uncertainties in their transactions, reiterating that the team was always on hand to provide clarity and guidance.
The CAC also expressed his gratitude to compliant stakeholders, acknowledging their role in supporting the command’s operations. “Our revenue collection is already strong, but with the continued cooperation of our compliant stakeholders, I know we can achieve even more in the last quarter of 2024. We are confident that this compliance, combined with our stringent anti-smuggling efforts, will yield even better results in the future.”
Olomu underscored that the command’s vigilance remains steadfast and will not be compromised. He affirmed that both trade facilitation and anti-smuggling efforts are conducted side by side, leveraging non-intrusive technology for cargo scanning, alongside physical examinations when necessary. These measures, he stressed, are not limited to the main port but are also strictly enforced in all bonded terminals under the Apapa Command’s jurisdiction.
“Reduced smuggling activities affirm the compliance level we are celebrating, and I can assure you that the best is yet to come,” Olomu remarked. “We are not letting our guard down. Our vigilance is airtight, and this attests to our capacity to detect smuggling and make necessary seizures.”
