By Aisha Cole
Lagos, Jan. 7, 2026
The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a landmark revenue generation of N2.93 trillion for the fiscal year 2025. This figure represents a substantial 24.32% increase over its 2024 collection of N2.36 trillion, translating to an additional N573.29 billion for the national coffers. The announcement solidifies Apapa’s undisputed position as the premier revenue-generating command in Nigeria, handling approximately 70% of the nation’s seaborne trade.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, disclosed these results in Lagos, attributing the success to a multi-pronged strategy under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi.
Decoding the Revenue Surge: More Than Just Numbers
Comptroller Oshoba outlined several critical drivers behind the record-breaking performance:
- Technology-Driven Efficiency: The full deployment of the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), codenamed “B’Odogwu,” has been a game-changer. This digital platform has streamlined cargo clearance by reducing human contact points, automating assessments, and providing a transparent audit trail. The result is faster processing times for compliant traders and fewer opportunities for revenue leakage.
- Enhanced Compliance through Engagement: A shift from purely punitive enforcement to collaborative facilitation played a key role. The rollout of the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme rewards highly compliant importers with expedited clearance and fewer physical inspections. Coupled with the One-Stop Shop (OSS) framework, which harmonizes regulatory agency interactions, these initiatives incentivize lawful trade, creating a virtuous cycle of compliance and efficiency.
- Strategic Leadership and Discipline: Oshoba emphasized “focused leadership and disciplined personnel” as foundational. This likely refers to targeted anti-corruption measures, continuous training, and the strategic redeployment of officers to critical control points within the massive port complex.
The Enforcement Front: Interdicting Illicit Trade
Beyond revenue, the command demonstrated robust enforcement capabilities. In 2025, it intercepted 53 containers carrying illicit drugs and prohibited goods, including:
– Cocaine
– Canadian Loud (a potent strain of cannabis)
– Tramadol
– Expired pharmaceuticals
The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of these seizures was a staggering N12.63 billion, preventing dangerous substances from entering the Nigerian market and protecting public health. All seizures were handed over to relevant agencies like the NDLEA and NAFDAC for prosecution, highlighting improved inter-agency collaboration.
The Road Ahead: Scanning the Future
Looking forward, Comptroller Oshoba revealed plans to deploy the FS6000 cargo scanning system. This non-intrusive inspection (NII) technology can scan up to 200 containers per hour, dramatically improving the detection of concealed contraband without slowing down the physical examination process for legitimate cargo. This represents a significant leap towards a more secure and efficient port environment.
Sustaining Growth: A Commitment to Partnership
The Controller commended importers, agents, and port operators for their improved compliance. He re-emphasized the command’s commitment to sustained engagement with all stakeholders—terminal operators, shipping companies, freight forwarders, and the media—to ensure transparency, compliance, and seamless trade.
With an “indestructible implementation” of the UCMS, AEO, and OSS initiatives planned for 2026, coupled with intelligence-led enforcement, the Apapa Command is poised to build on this success, aiming for even stronger results in the coming year.
(Source: NAN News)
Edited by Maureen Atuonwu
