The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced remarkable strides on both domestic and continental fronts, combining strong revenue performance with decisive enforcement actions and bold reform advocacy.
At the Onne Port in Rivers State, outgoing Customs Area Controller, Port Harcourt II Command, ACG Mohammed Babandede, disclosed that the command generated over N1.16 trillion between 2024 and August 2025, surpassing successive revenue targets. “My target for last year (2024) was N618 billion; and I was able to generate N639 billion. This year alone, my target is N700 billion. As I am speaking to you, by the end of August, I was able to collect N477 billion. So, through your hard work, my officers and men, we are able to generate over N1.16 trillion,” Babandede said.
He further revealed that the command intercepted 20 containers of illicit pharmaceuticals and goods valued at N13.5 billion. The drugs, imported from India and disguised as vegetable oil, machetes, tomato paste, and other regular imports, were seized in collaboration with NAFDAC. “Nigeria has long struggled with counterfeit and substandard medications, which pose a significant risk to public health, including potentially fatal outcomes. Pursuant to the federal government’s resolution to ensure public health and safety, the officers’ vigilance and professionalism played a crucial role in these interdictions,” Babandede added.
Meanwhile, at the continental level, Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, highlighted the urgent need for reforms to position Africa competitively in global trade. Speaking at the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025) in Algiers, Algeria, he declared: “Customs reforms are no longer optional; they are essential for Africa to realise its full potential in trade. We must prioritise efficiency, transparency, and innovation to strengthen the competitiveness of African exporters and advance continental integration.”
Highlighting Nigeria’s digitalisation of clearance processes, enforcement upgrades, and capacity building, Adeniyi noted that these efforts align with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) objectives. He also announced that Nigeria has secured hosting rights for IATF2027, a development hailed as recognition of the country’s leadership in regional integration.
“With Nigeria hosting IATF2027, we have both an opportunity and a responsibility to showcase the impact of our reforms and demonstrate how Customs can drive sustainable economic growth,” Adeniyi stressed.
Credit: The Sun