Customs

Tinubu lauds Customs’ contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth

– as the service meets N4.07 trillion 2024 revenue target in 11 months.

Funso OLOJO

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Nigeria Customs Service to the nation’s overall economic growth, lauding the service’s capacity to realign with his administration’s transformative agenda.

Expressing his admiration and commitment to enhancing the service’s efficiency, Tinubu said Customs’ performance represents a laudable example of how government agencies must align their functions and programmes with the federal government’s overall vision.

Declaring open the 2024 CGC conference in Abuja on November 13th, 2024, the President, represented by his Chief Security officer(CSO), Nuhu Ribadu, gave a pat on the back of the service for its modernisation programme, trade facilitation, enforcement of compliance by traders and improved revenue generation.

“Agencies needed to demonstrate initiative in identifying opportunities within their mandates that would best serve and advance our national aspirations.

“I am pleased to note that the Nigeria Customs Service is one of the agencies that has risen to this expectation, demonstrating how government institutions can effectively contribute to our economic transformation agenda while fulfilling their core mandates.

“This alignment is clearly demonstrated in the Service’s comprehensive modernization agenda.

” In responding to our administration’s call for enhanced trade facilitation and economic growth, the Service has introduced significant reforms including the Advanced Ruling system and the Authorised Economic Operator Program.

” These initiatives, which align with global best practices, show how agencies can innovatively implement solutions that advance our national economic objectives while meeting international standards.

“Such reforms not only enhance trade facilitation but also create a more predictable business environment that supports our broader economic goals.

“The results of these initiatives across the Service’s core mandates have been encouraging. The Nigeria Customs Service has shown remarkable progress in revenue generation, enhancing government’s capacity to fund critical national development projects.

” Through strategic reforms, the Service is strengthening Nigeria’s position as a trade-friendly nation, particularly in the areas of export promotion and port efficiency.

“This has contributed significantly to our improved global ranking in the ease of doing business. The Service has also demonstrated that effective trade facilitation can coexist with strong regulatory compliance, as evidenced by its enhanced border security and anti-smuggling operations.

” These achievements affirm our administration’s belief that public institutions, when properly aligned with national objectives, can effectively drive transformative change” President Tinubu noted.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Customs Service has generated the princely sum of N5.079 trillion about six weeks before the end of 2024.

This revenue performance meets its 2024 revenue target of N5.07 trillion with a high probability of surpassing the target by the end of the year.

An elated Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, who announced this feat to his august guests at the 2024 CGC conference in Abuja, exuded confidence that the service will brush aside the 2024 revenue target by at least 10 percent at the close of the year.

While delivering his welcome address at this year’s conference with the theme “NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE: ENGAGING TRADITIONAL AND NEW PARTNERS WITH PURPOSE” Adeniyi attributed this rare feat to the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the stakeholders, synergy with relevant government agencies and the commitment of his men and officers.

“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to announce that yesterday(Tuesday )12 November 2024, at exactly 13:10 Hrs, the Nigeria Customs Service hit its 2024 revenue target of NGN 5.07 trillion, collecting NGN 5,079,455,088,194.38 with more than a month remaining in the fiscal year.

“This exceptional performance – projected to exceed our target by 10% – validates our partnership-driven approach to revenue collection and trade facilitation.

” The achievement is not merely about numbers; it demonstrates how enhanced stakeholder collaboration, improved processes, and modernized systems can deliver tangible results for our nation’s economy” he noted.

He took his audience through the audacious transformative programmes of his administration which have helped to transform and reposition the service.

Apart from revenue generation, Adeniyi disclosed that the service recorded N28.1 billion worth of seizures of illicit goods during the period under review.

The CGC also disclosed that the deployment of new trade facilitation tools such as the Advance Ruling system and Authorized Economic Operators(AEO) have combined to help facilitate trade within the stringent enforcement of compliance environment.

“The momentum of our modernization initiatives continues to build, yielding immediate benefits for our stakeholders.

“With your support and collaboration, we have successfully implemented several key reforms. Our Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) scheme now has six beneficiaries in its pilot phase, carefully selected based on stringent compliance criteria.

“The Advanced Ruling system has processed 31 requests, with 12 rulings issued -notably, 75% of these were completed in October following our stakeholder sensitization efforts.

“Additionally, the introduction of 24-hour cargo clearance at major ports has significantly reduced dwell time; the completion of Nigeria’s first Time Release Study now provides us with empirical data to measure and improve our efficiency; our enhanced risk management systems are streamlining operations; and the deployment of non-intrusive inspection equipment is accelerating cargo examination while maintaining robust controls.

“In fulfilling our enforcement mandate, we have achieved unprecedented success in protecting both our citizens and economy. The scale of our intervention is reflected in seizures valued at NGN 28.1 billion and counting in 2024 alone.

” These seizures span critical areas of national concern – from wildlife items and arms and ammunition to narcotics and pharmaceutical products.

“An important moment in our enforcement strategy was the declaration of a state of emergency at our major ports, which led to the interception of 48 containers of illicit pharmaceutical items and narcotics, significantly disrupting the flow of potentially harmful products.

” Through strategic operations, we continue to intercept and seize prohibited items that pose direct threats to public health and safety.

” Our enforcement activities have been particularly impactful in addressing items that could worsen our current economic challenges.

“A standout example is Operation Whirlwind, launched in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

“This joint initiative to combat petroleum product smuggling demonstrates how inter-agency cooperation can effectively protect our national resources and economic stability.

” The success of these operations underscores a crucial lesson: when agencies work together with a shared purpose, we multiply our effectiveness in safeguarding national interests” the CGC declared.

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Customs

Relief as Customs grants January 31st, 2026 extension for fast track operators to migrate to AEO

Funso Olojo

The Nigeria Customs Service has now extended the earlier December 31st, 2025 deadline for the migration of importers from fast track scheme to Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) to January 31st, 2026.

The extension, according to the Customs Authority, is meant to absorb more fast track operators into the AEO programme, deepen trade facilitation, secure supply chain and strengthen compliance in line with global standards.

As a result of the extension, Customs high command advised all existing Fast Track beneficiaries who are yet to complete their migration are to initiate and conclude their AEO applications through the official platform: aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng.

“The extended timeline provides operators with ample opportunity to meet programme requirements and secure AEO certification without disruption to their business operations.

” For enquiries, technical support, or guidance, stakeholders may reach the dedicated helpdesk via aeo@customs.gov.ng.

“Only companies duly certified under the AEO Programme will continue to access the facilitation privileges previously available under the Fast Track Scheme.

The AEO Programme is a globally recognised compliance-based initiative that grants trusted operators enhanced benefits such as expedited cargo release, reduced documentation, lower inspection levels, pre-arrival processing, and greater predictability in cross-border trade.

” The extension reinforces the Service’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and inclusive transition process for all stakeholders.

“This decision to fully migrate from the fast-track scheme to AEO is consistent with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards and is supported by Sections 108 to 111 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

To further support stakeholders and sustain ongoing sensitisation efforts, the Service will convene another comprehensive Stakeholders Engagement Forum to provide practical guidance on the migration process, demonstrate application procedures, and address compliance-related concerns.

The forum is scheduled for Thursday, 18 December 2025, at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Lagos, from 0900hrs to 1600hrs.

“Participants will have the opportunity to interact with AEO implementation teams and obtain detailed information on programme requirements, benefits, and operational modalities.

“The NCS urges all fast-track beneficiaries to take advantage of the extension period, participate actively in the engagement forum, and complete their transition to the AEO Programme.

” This proactive involvement not only ensures compliance with applicable regulations but also enhances the supply chain’s effectiveness and sustainability, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits all parties.

“The Service remains committed to driving trade efficiency, enhancing Nigeria’s global competitiveness, protecting national revenue, and promoting a predictable, transparent, and secure cargo clearance ecosystem that supports legitimate business” the agency declared.

Customs

Again, Customs, NDLEA Collabo intercepts 2,374 packages of Canadian Loud at Apapa Port

– Comptroller Oshoba warns illicit traders against daring resolve of Customs Officers at Yuletide season

Funso OLOJO

For the second times in a week, the impregnable wall of surveillance mounted by the combination of the Apapa Customs and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) against the exit of illicit drugs from Apapa Port has interdicted a 20- foot container marked FCIU 6369526 laden with 2,374 packages of cannabis concealed in 55 bags with a total weight of 1,187kg.

This interception, the product of a credible intelligence, came barely 5 days both agencies uncovered 25.5kg cocaine in a Brazilian flagged vessel.

The latest seizure was suspected to be

Canadian Loud, an expensive strain of cannabis concealed inside an imported vehicles.

Both agencies, in the course of joint examination, discovered the seizure which has been taken into the custody of the NDLEA.

A breakdown of the drugs indicates that they were packed in 500 grams per sachet

Speaking on the seizure, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, commended the robust synergy between the NCS and NDLEA while reiterating the service zero tolerance for smuggling.

” Few days ago, I stated that no consignment will exit our control from this port without due check. Our synergy as agencies of government will always put us ahead of criminal elements.

“No matter the volume of trade we are processing, we will never sacrifice national security and economy for any form of trade.

“While we are focused on collecting maximum revenue for government, our eagle eyed officers are activated to be alert at all times.

” Let me warn, once again for the umpteenth time, any trader- importer, exporter, freight forwarder or licensed customs agent that dares our resolve this Yuletide season and beyond ,will face the full wrath of the law.

“Investigations are ongoing on this seizure and we shall bring the perpetrators to book” Comptroller Oshoba said.

Customs

Comptroller Aliyu vows to sustain onslaught on smugglers as he assumes duties at FOU A

Funso OLOJO

Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, the new controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU ) A of the Nigeria Customs Service, has expressed his determination to sustain the ongoing stranglehold on smugglers and other illicit traders within the Zone

Comptroller Aliu make this pledge on Wednesday, December 10th, 2025 when he assumed duties as the helmsman of the Zone A anti- smuggling unit.

He expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi and his management team for the opportunity to serve in the unit.

The new controller also commended outgoing Controller of the Unit, Muhammed Shuaibu, who has been elevated to an Assistant Comptroller General for his outstanding service, achievement and pledged to consolidate on them for greater success.

“I assure you that we will consolidate on these achievements for even greater successes.

“The FOU Zone A plays a critical role in enforcing compliance, suppressing smuggling and safeguarding the economic integrity of our dear nation.

” I am aware of the enormous responsibilities that come from this position especially within a zone as strategic, dynamic and challenging as Lagos and its environment.

“However, I am confident that with the cooperation and professionalism of the gallant officers and men of this command , we will continue to fulfill this mandate diligently.”

Aliyu, who until his new disposition, was the Customs Area Controller of Oyo/ Osun Command, outlined other key areas of focus that will guide the unit under his watch to include professional conduct and discipline among officers, stakeholders engagement as well as capacity building and welfare of officers.

He said, “High standards of ethics, discipline and integrity as well as accountability will remain non-negotiable.

” Every officer must ensure that their actions reflect the core values of the service.

“We will deepen collaboration with sister agencies ,community leaders and the trading public to strengthen border security and facilitate lawful trade.

“The motivation and welfare of officers will be prioritized to ensure improved efficiency and operational readiness.”

Aliyu assured stakeholders and the trading public that justice, equity and fairness will guide the unit’s actions at all times.

He added that the unit’s operations under his watch would be underpinned by three cardinal objectives including management change, compliance management, and reputation management.

He called on all officers and stakeholders to join hands with him in this new role, promising to operate an open door policy.

Earlier, in his valedictory speech, outgoing Controller, ACG Shuaibu, highlighted the unit’s major successes during his seven-month tenure, which began on April 23, 2025.

He stated that the unit recorded a total of 476 interceptions, comprising 761 seized items with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over N10.151 billion.

Some of the notable seizures listed included: 23,000 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to 38 trailers).

98 ‘tokunbo’vehicles, 2,350 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa, and 1,820 jerry cans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

Others are 15 assorted rifles and 4,841 rounds of ammunition, two industrial drones, 25 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, and 4 cylinders of Russian-made explosives (each weighing 50kg), seizure of $30,000 and 110 CFA, totaling N31 million, which has been secured as final forfeiture to the Federal Government.

Additionally, he said the unit within the review period arrested 38 suspects and handed over eight containers of expired pharmaceutical products valued at N7.5 billion to NAFDAC, among other items.

Beyond enforcement, ACG Shuaibu stated that the unit recovered a total sum of N419,202,458.85 through demand notices issued on questionable declarations and undervalues, ensuring compliance with import and export regulations.

He attributed the successes to the unwavering support of stakeholders and dedicated officers, urging them to extend the same level of cooperation to Comptroller Aliu.

“I am confident that the foundation we have built will continue to flourish. Our shared objective remains to sustain prudent stewardship and strengthen the fight against smuggling.

” To my successor, I extend heartfelt congratulations on your appointment. I wish you great success and have no doubt that your leadership will usher in new perspectives and further advancement in these pivotal roles, ” he said.