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Tag: customs

  • Customs seized N5.2 billion goods in six week

    Customs seized N5.2 billion goods in six week

    The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operation Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’ has seized prohibited goods worth over N5.2 billion  in the last six weeks.

    Its Area Controller Kola Oladeji, broke the news in Lagos yesterday.

    He said donkey skin worth more than N4 billion and other prohibited items, including cannabis sativa. 21, exotic cars were  intercepted by the operatives of the Service.

    His words: “Our intelligence network has been of immense contribution to our success as well as the collaborative contributions of relevant security Agencies which has recorded remarkable success in our anti-smuggling campaign.”

    During the period under review, he said: “Our men exhibited strict professional conduct and relentless effort in enforcing the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 as it relates to import, export, revenue, security of lives and properties across the borders of the Southwestern states.

    Read Also: Customs moves to decongest ports

    “It is worthy of note to mention items seized for investigation between December 25 and February 4 as follows:

    “A very peculiar arrest is the 1x40ft Container loaded with 4,410 of dry donkey Skin with a Street Value of N4,235,790,464.64.’’

    While  commending the Officer in charge of the Export Team for exhibiting a high level of diligence and integrity by rejecting every attempt made by faceless individuals to compromise the process, he said: “It is no gain saying that the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) prohibits Trade in vulnerable species. With the slaughtering of over 4,00 donkeys and attempt to smuggle them out of the country, CITES has been violated and we shall investigate thoroughly to unmask the unscrupulous individuals behind this act.The arrested Cannabis Sativa weighing 1,378kg will be handed over to the relevant government agency for further investigation.’’

  • Clearing agents reject 4% levy on imported cargoes by Customs

    Clearing agents reject 4% levy on imported cargoes by Customs

    The implementation of exchange rate for cargo clearance by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has drawn the ire of stakeholders in the maritime industry.

    They claimed the new policy, which began yesterday may have severe economic consequences.

    The Federal Government, through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), raised the exchange rate for import duty calculation from N952 to N1,356 per dollar, significantly increasing the cost of cargo clearance.

    The development  came weeks after the rate was moved from N783 to N952 per dollar, following a similar adjustment in November 2023, when the rate was first raised from N757 to N783 per dollar.

    A former acting National President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Kayode Farinto, criticised the ‘abrupt nature of the implementation’, noting that the Customs Act 2023 requires proper notification before such changes could take effect.

    “I’m not aware of any strike threats, but what I do know is that Section 18 of the Customs Act 2023 says Customs shall charge 4 per cent of the free-on-board value of imports according to international best practices. So that means whatever they are implementing now is in line with the Act,” he noted.

    However, Farinto emphasised that Section 23 of the same Act mandates that Customs publish such information on their website to ensure adequate sensitization.

    “Nobody has been sensitised. You can’t just wake up and say you want to implement 4 per cent duty. It’s ridiculous. It’s absurd. And this negates what is happening in international climes.

    “So, Customs should be advised to withdraw that implementation and sensitise the trading community before they start enforcing it. We are not in Oshodi Market where you just buy and sell, and your customer tells you tomorrow that he is inflating the price of whatever he is selling.

    “This is international trade, people must be sensitised, traders abroad should be informed that from a specific date in 2025, we shall be implementing this charge,” he added.

    Read Also: Customs seizes 199,495 litres of petrol in Adamawa, Taraba

    Similarly, Olumide Obukun, another maritime stakeholder, acknowledged that while clearing agents and freight forwarders were caught off guard by the new rate, there were no immediate plans for strike .

    “Nobody is threatening to strike. The real issue is that when the policy was being discussed at the National Assembly, we were not there. Now, it has already been signed into law, and Customs has simply implemented it,” he explained.

    Obukun, however, expressed concerns over the lack of prior notice before the policy implementation, stating: “We just woke up this morning to find out—no notice, nothing. That’s the only issue.”

    Clearing agents are not the ones directly affected by the duty rate hike, but that the burden would ultimately fall on importers and consumers, he said..

    “We are not importers; we are  Customs  or clearing agents. The people who own the goods are the ones that will pay. Then all of us will meet at the market.”

    “As for the common man, it will affect them in the sense that prices of goods in the market will rise,” he warned.

    The Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 introduced a structured framework for revenue generation and transparency in Customs operations, reinforcing the agency’s role in trade facilitation and economic stability.

    Sections 18 and 23 of the Act, specifically address financial provisions and information accessibility, ensuring accountability in revenue collection and Customs procedures.

    Under Section 18 of the Act, Customs is mandated to maintain government-approved bank accounts into which various revenue streams are deposited. These include a minimum of 4 per cent of the free-on-board (FOB) value of imports, cost-based user fees, government budgetary allocations, and grants from local and international partners.

    The law also grants the President the authority to propose an increase beyond the 4 per cent, subject to approval by the National Assembly.

    To maintain stability in revenue generation, the Act empowers the NCS to supervise and execute capital expenditure projects up to 10 per cent of the total approved capital budget for a given year. Additionally, the agency can procure materials and services related to these projects and even borrow funds within 10 per cent of its approved capital expenditure, with the President’s approval.

    To promote openness, Section 23 of the Act mandates that the NCS publish all relevant customs-related information on its website and other designated platforms. This includes import and export procedures, duty rates, customs classification rules, trade restrictions, penalty provisions, and appeals processes.

    The law also ensures that customs-related charges remain transparent, requiring that any service fees be limited to the actual cost of providing the service. However, private or confidential information is protected and cannot be disclosed unless required by law.

    This provision aligns with international best practices in trade facilitation, ensuring that importers, exporters, and the general public have easy access to customs regulations and procedures. By making such information readily available, the Act aims to reduce bottlenecks, enhance compliance, and foster efficiency in the movement of goods across Nigeria’s borders.

  • Customs moves to decongest ports

    Customs moves to decongest ports

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a public notice, listing 151 overtime containers and vehicles domiciled at mostly Apapa port, and KLT port terminals in Lagos for court condemnation to further decongest the nation’s ports.

    According to the public notice sighted by The Nation, the service said the action is in line with its  Act 2023, following a motion of exparte with suit no: FHC/L/MISC/8262024 dated 28tth November, 2024.

    Findings revealed that out of the 151 listed containers, 91 of them are domiciled in Lagos Port Complex (LPC), Apapa, while the remaining 60 containers are located at KLT terminal.

    The Service had on  last Tuesday announced that it will commence the implementation of a 30-day deadline for cargo clearance at the ports.

    According to the Customs, the set of guidelines would help address port congestion, streamline clearance processes and reduce disputes arising from the disposal of overtime cargo.

     “Pursuant to the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023, the Service is reinforcing the provisions that mandate imported consignments to be cleared within 30 days after the completion of discharge of the importing carrier or within a timeframe prescribed by the Service, as provided in Section 30(1).

     “In addition, Section 149(1) empowers the Service to establish time limits for cargoes to leave customs territory,” Customs noted in a statement signed by Abdullahi Maiwada, Public Relations Officer.

     “To enhance efficiency in cargo clearance, all consignments shall enjoy 30 days from the date of arrival at the port, free of overtime clearance encumbrances” it said.

    Cargo exceeding 30 days would be considered “overtime” but may still be cleared within an additional 30 days after application and approval by the relevant Customs Area Controller (CAC).

    Read Also: Customs seizes 6,180 cutlasses

    Where a consignment remains undeclared within 60 days, clearance would require approval from the Assistant Comptroller General/Zonal Coordinator upon application.

    This clearance opportunity would be valid within 90 days from arrival. However, customs would commence disposal process for consignments not cleared within 90 days.

     “It is important to note that without prejudice to the guidelines above, the Service reserves the right to initiate the disposal process, if necessary, following the initial 30-day grace period stipulated by the NCSA 2023,” it added.

    The Service, however , assured  the public of a transparent and efficient cargo clearance process that prevents undue port congestion, mitigates legal disputes associated with overtime cargo, and enhances overall trade facilitation.

    It urged the stakeholders to comply with these regulations to facilitate quick cargo clearance from the ports and boost internal trade.

  • Customs seizes 6,180 cutlasses

    Customs seizes 6,180 cutlasses

    • • 16,712 bags of rice nabbed in Ogun

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun  State Command, has seized 6,180 pieces of cutlasses from smugglers.

      At a press conference on its last year’s scorecard in the Ogun 1 Command and handing over of seized cannabis sativa, its Area Controller, Mohammed Shuaibu, said the command seized  2,002 50kg bags of smuggled imported rice and also intercepted other contraband worth N1.27 billion.

    According to him, between January 1 and 27, the command seized 2,002 bags of smuggled rice weighing 50kg each, 6,180 pieces of cutlasses, and 6,375 litres of PMS, among others, bringing the total Duty Paid Value (DPV) to N77.48 million.

    Read Also: Lagos, Fed Govt sign MoU on 68km VI, Lekki, Ajah rail project

    In the 2024 fiscal year, he said, the command generated a revenue of N275,835,406 from baggage assessment and proceeds from auction of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and vehicles, among others. It also seized 16,712 pieces of foreign parboiled rice, 50kg each; 139, 881 litres of PMS; 940 rounds of ammunition; 71 sacks and 3,253 parcels of cannabis sativa; 586 bales of used clothing and 86 units of vehicles used for conveyance.

    Other were 18 units of foreign used vehicles, 2,150 pieces of used Pneumatic tyres, 760 pieces of Donkey Skin, 3,766 frozen poultry products and 85 bags of imported flour worth N127billion.

    “These achievements are a testament to the commitment of our officers to combating smuggling, protecting the economy, and safeguarding the well-being of our society. As we began the new year, our focus has remained on consolidating the gains of 2024,” the controller added.

  • Insecurity: Customs seizes 6,180 pieces of cutlasses, 16,712 bags of rice in Ogun

    Insecurity: Customs seizes 6,180 pieces of cutlasses, 16,712 bags of rice in Ogun

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun State Command, announced on Tuesday that it intercepted 6,180 pieces of cutlasses from smugglers as part of its major steps to boost 

    safety of lives and properties and reduce security challenges in the country.

    Speaking at the press conference on the year 2024 scorecard of the Ogun 1 command and handing over of seized Cannabis Sativa, its Area Controller, Mohammed Shuaibu disclosed that the command  seized  2,002 50kg bags of smuggled imported rice and 

    also intercepted other contraband worth N1.27 billion last year.

    He said: “I am pleased to inform you that, from the 1st of January to the 27th of January 2025, the command recorded significant seizures. These seizures include 2,002 bags of smuggled rice weighing 50kg each, 6,180 pieces of cutlasses, and 6,375 litres of PMS, among others. The intercepted items during this period bring the total Duty Paid Value (DPV) to N77.48 million. These seizures reflect our relentless efforts to curtail smuggling activities and enforce compliance with Customs regulations.

    In the  2024 fiscal year, he said , the command generated a total revenue of N275,835,406 through the diligent efforts of our officers and the cooperation of compliant traders. The revenue was actualized through the collection from baggage assessment and proceeds from auction sales of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and vehicles.

    “Through intelligence-driven operations and the dedication of our officers, we intercepted and seized 16,712 pieces of Foreign Parboiled Rice, 50kg each; 139, 881 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS); 940 rounds of live Ammunition; 71 sacks and 3,253 Parcels of Cannabis Sativa; 586 bales of used Clothing and 86 units of vehicles used for conveyance.

    Other seized items, according  to him, “are 18 units of foreign Used Vehicles, 2,150 pieces of Used Pneumatic tyres, 760 pieces of Donkey Skin, 3,766 Frozen Poultry Products and 85 bags of imported flour. The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of these seizures amounts to N127billion.

    “These achievements are a testament to the commitment of our officers to combating smuggling activities, protecting the economy, and safeguarding the well-being of our society. As we began the new year, our focus has remained on consolidating the gains of 2024.”

    He said further: “The command would hand over 780 parcels of coconut-sized Cannabis Sativa, 225 parcels of book seize and 160 parcels of bread seized to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Idiroko Special Command.

    “As part of our inter-agency collaboration, we are handing over intercepted parcels of cannabis sativa to the Commander of the NDLEA, Idiroko Special Command.

    The items include “780 parcels of coconut-sized cannabis sativa, 225 parcels of book-sized cannabis sativa and 160 parcels of bread-sized cannabis sativa.

    “This handover is in line with our commitment to strengthening partnerships with other security agencies to combat drug trafficking and ensure a safer society.”

    He applauded the Comptroller -General of the Service, Adewale Adeniyi for his continuous support and urged the general public to join hands with the Service by providing timely and credible information to help us combat smuggling and other economic crimes.

    Read Also: Customs Tin-Can Command forseamless cargo clearance

    “I want to use this opportunity to appreciate the continuous support of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR. It is my pleasure to also commend the officers and men of the Ogun I Area Command for their resilience, professionalism, and dedication to duty.

    “Your hard work and commitment have been instrumental in achieving these milestones. May I equally extend my profound gratitude to our esteemed stakeholders, traditional rulers, community leaders, and the media for your continued support and collaboration?

    “I urge the general public to join hands with the Nigeria Customs Service by providing timely and credible information to help us combat smuggling and other economic crimes. Together, we can build a prosperous nation where compliance is the norm, and criminality has no place.”

    “As we continue in 2025, we remain resolute in delivering on our mandate to protect the economy, ensure security, and contribute to national prosperity. Let me assure you that the Ogun I Area Command will not relent in its efforts to combat smuggling, facilitate legitimate trade, and generate revenue for national development,” he pledged. 

  • Customs issues 30-day ultimatum for importers, agents to clear goods from ports

    Customs issues 30-day ultimatum for importers, agents to clear goods from ports

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a 30-day deadline for importers and clearing agents to clear their goods from ports, aiming to streamline operations, reduce port congestion, and boost the economy.

    In a statement released yesterday by the NCS National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, it was noted that an additional 30-day extension could be granted with approval from the relevant Area Controller.

    Maiwada further stated that importers or agents could be granted a final 90-day clearance window upon approval from an Assistant Comptroller General or Zonal Coordinator. However, goods not cleared within this period would be subject to disposal proceedings.

    The statement reads in part: “pursuant to the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023, the Service is reinforcing the provisions that mandate imported consignments to be cleared within 30 days after the completion of discharge of the importing carrier or within a timeframe prescribed by the Service, as provided in Section 30(1).

    “In addition, Section 149(1) empowers the Service to establish time limits for cargoes to leave customs territory. These guidelines will ensure compliance, prevent undue delays, and maintain order at port terminals while allowing importers and exporters ample time for cargo clearance.

    “To enhance efficiency in cargo clearance, all consignments shall enjoy 30 days from the date of arrival at the port, free of overtime clearance encumbrances.

    Read Also: Customs to exceed set target

    “Cargo exceeding 30 days shall be deemed “overtime” but may still be cleared within an additional 30 days upon application and approval by the relevant Customs Area Controller (CAC).

    “Where a consignment remains undeclared within 60 days, clearance shall require approval from the Assistant Comptroller General/Zonal Coordinator upon application. This clearance opportunity is valid within 90 days from arrival. Any consignment uncleared beyond 90 days shall be due for the commencement of the disposal process.

    Adeniyi said that without prejudice to the guidelines above, the Service reserves the right to initiate the disposal process, if necessary, following the initial 30-day grace period stipulated by the NCSA 2023.

    “The Service, under the leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, remains committed to ensuring a transparent and efficient cargo clearance process that prevents undue port congestion, mitigates legal disputes associated with overtime cargo, and enhances overall trade facilitation. Stakeholders are encouraged to comply with these regulations to facilitate smooth trade operations, ” he said.

  • Customs Tin-Can Command forseamless cargo clearance

    Customs Tin-Can Command forseamless cargo clearance

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin-Can Customs Command has assured importers and other port users of seamless cargo clearance ahead of the commencement of the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), otherwise known as B’Odogwu system at the Tin-Can Island Port in Lagos.

    The B’Odogwu system recently commenced its pilot phase implementation at the Ports & Terminal Multipurpose Limited (PTML).

    Speaking during the World Customs Day celebration held at the Command in Lagos yesterday,  its Area Controller, Frank Onyeka said that whatever teething issues experienced with the B’Odogwu during its pilot phase at PTML has been resolved and the system is set to boost trade facilitation at the  port.

    His words: “It is with immense pride and a profound sense of responsibility that I stand before you today on this auspicious occasion of International Customs Day 2025.

    This year’s theme,  ‘Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity,” he said,  resonates deeply with the very essence of our mission at the Tin-can Island Command and aligns seamlessly with the strategic priorities of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

    The World Customs Organisation (WCO), he added, “has tasked us with not just making promises but translating our commitments into concrete, measurable actions. This call to action underscores the pivotal role of Customs in advancing legitimate trade facilitation, ensuring border security, collecting of Government revenue and fostering sustainable economic growth.

    “Allow me, therefore, to highlight the strides we have made and the vision that drives us forward in fulfilling this mandate.

    “Efficiency in Trade Facilitation: Trade facilitation remains a cornerstone of our work, and at Tincan Island Command, we have adopted innovative approaches to streamline processes, reduce delays, and enhance the ease of doing business.

    Read Also: Customs seeks synergy to tackle

    “Through the future deployment of the B’Odogwu (Nigeria Customs Unified Customs Management System), we have automated key procedures, ensuring transparency and reducing human intervention. The integration of advanced technologies such as blockchain, e-customs platforms, and artificial intelligence has not only enhanced the speed of cargo clearance but also reinforced our commitment to meeting global best practices as seen in the pilot command PTML.

    Onyeka stated further that, “the Command has prioritised stakeholder engagement as a critical enabler of efficiency. By fostering partnerships with terminal operators, freight forwarders, shipping lines and regulatory agencies, we have built a collaborative ecosystem that supports seamless operations.

    These efforts, the Area Controller said “have contributed to Nigeria’s improved ranking in The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), the Logistics Performance Index (LPI) and the Ease of Doing Business assessments.

    “As we celebrate International Customs Day, let us remember that our work has far-reaching implications for the lives of millions nationally and billions continentally.

    “By delivering on our commitments to efficiency, security, and prosperity, we are not only fulfilling our mandate but also contributing to a brighter future for our nation and the global economy.

    “To my esteemed colleagues, I urge you to continue to embrace the collaboration, consolidation and innovation in service delivery as mandated in the Comptroller General’s policy thrust.

    “To our stakeholders, I thank you for your unwavering support and collaboration, which remain invaluable to our success.”

    In his address, the Zone A Coordinator, ACG Charles Orbih explained that, “Zone ‘A’ being the bedrock of the Nigeria Customs Service represents a critical economic gateway for Nigeria, embodying the strategic importance of the Service in connecting Nigeria with global markets. Hence, the need for us to get it right.

    “To our esteemed leaders and decision-makers, we call upon you to support our vision. Your strategic investment in our infrastructure, technological capabilities, and human capital is crucial.

    “By empowering the Nigeria Customs Service, you directly contribute to national economic resilience, security, and global competitiveness.

    “Today, we recognize the extraordinary contributions of our outstanding officers and stakeholders who have significantly advanced our Service’s mission. People whose inventiveness has enhanced revenue collection, facilitated trade and protected our national economic interests.

    “As we commemorate this day, I urge every Customs officer to embrace our theme throughout the entire year. Let us demonstrate our commitment through consistent, professional, and innovative service. We must promote this theme in every of our interactions, processes and decisions that we make.

    Our collective actions, Orbih said:  “will determine Nigeria’s economic competitiveness globally and national security.”

  • Customs to exceed set target

    Customs to exceed set target

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has vowed to exceed its performance target in 2025.

    The organization ordinarily had N6 trillion revenue target in the 2025 Appropriation Bill but the National Assembly Joint Committee on Finance reportedly raised it to N12 trillion.

    Meanwhile, speaking at 2025 International Customs Day in Abuja yesterday, the Comptroller -General, Adewale Adeniyi said the NCS commitment to the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    Forecasting the performance of the service, Adeniyi said: “Moving forward, we will continue to rely on the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Olawale Edun, alongside the dedication of our officers, men, stakeholders, and international partners to achieve and surpass our performance targets.”

    Earlier, he said the World Customs Organization’s (WCO) theme for 2025, “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity,” perfectly encapsulates the foundational mandates of the NCS.

    According to him, the core responsibilities are facilitating legitimate trade, securing the national borders, and fostering economic growth – form the bedrock of the operations.

    He said the NCS’ strategic approach harmoniously balances trade facilitation with robust security measures, directly contributing to Nigeria’s economic advancement.

    He said that the Service’s unprecedented achievement of ₦6.1 trillion in revenue collection, coupled with significant security interventions, exemplifies its practical commitment to the mandates.

    He said in pursuit of operational efficiency, the Service has made significant strides in modernizing its processes and procedures.

    Read Also: Tinubu celebrates Customs chief Adeniyi at 59

    Adeniyi said its commitment to efficiency is evidenced by several key achievements over the years.

    He cited the notable measures accountable for the attainment to include the successful  implementation of the Advanced Ruling System, providing binding decisions on  classification and valuation before shipment arrival, thereby reducing clearance delays and disputes, is one of the resent reference to its efforts to deliver efficiency.

    Continuing, he said: “Moreover, the remarkable success of our Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, which has achieved an average release time of 43 hours for certified companies, representing a 66.9per cent reduction in cargo clearance time is another recent instance.

    “Over the years the Service has modernised its processes to make the trading experience soothing for Nigerians.

    “Late last year we announced the indigenous development and deployment of our customs clearance platform, ‘’Odogwu’, which has already processed transactions worth billions in revenue within its pilot phase.”

    He said in terms of security, globally there is increasingly a complex interplay between illicit trade, technological advancement, and transnational criminal networks.

     In addressing these challenges, Adeniyi  said the Service, like other Customs Administration, focuses on several critical risk domains identified by the World Customs Organization, and which include: Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-terrorism Financing.

    The Customs boss said the service maintains vigilance against bulk cash smuggling, trade-based money laundering, and illicit trafficking of high-value commodities.

    He further said enforcement efforts safeguard against the illicit trafficking of cultural objects and artifacts, particularly given increasing global concerns about trafficking from conflict zones.

    Adeniyi revealed that the service has intensified its response to evolving narcotics threats, particularly addressing the shift from traditional narcotics to pharmaceutical and synthetic drug abuse.

     In 2024, he said this resulted in 105 seizures of narcotics and illicit drugs.

    He said: “Our enforcement actions against wildlife trafficking, illegal timber trade, and hazardous waste smuggling saw significant success, with 76 seizures of animal/wildlife products valued at ₦5.93 billion.”

    The climax of the 2025 International Customs Day was the presentation of awards to 72 officers and stakeholders for their contribution to the efficient performance of the NCS.

    In his goodwill message, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa said in the ever-evolving landscape of global trade and security challenges, the NCS has consistently demonstrated its adaptability, resilience, and innovation. He added that the NCS dedication to embracing new technologies, implementing best practices, and fostering international cooperation have been instrumental to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of customs operations across the country.

    Seeking a synergy between the NCS and other organizations, Musa said: “As we move forward, let us continue to work in synergy with other agencies, strengthening our partnership, sharing knowledge, and leveraging our collective expertise to further improve customs processes, enhance security measures, and drive economic prosperity for our nation and its people.”

    He pledged the continuous support of the armed forces for the NCS.

    He said: “As the Chief of Defence Staff, I am proud to say that the Nigerian Armed Forces will sustain and support the Nigerian Customs Service to promote the security and prosperity of our dear nation.”

  • Customs vows to exceed performance target 

    Customs vows to exceed performance target 

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has vowed to exceed its performance target in 2025.

    The organization ordinarily had N6 trillion revenue target in the 2025 Appropriation Bill but the National Assembly Joint Committee on Finance reportedly raised it to N12 trillion.

    Meanwhile, speaking at 2025 International Customs Day in Abuja yesterday, the Comptroller -General, Adewale Adeniyi stressed, the NCS commitment to the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    Forecasting the performance of the service, Adeniyi said: “Moving forward, we will continue to rely on the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Olawale Edun, alongside the dedication of our officers, men, stakeholders, and international partners to achieve and surpass our performance targets.”

    Earlier, he said the World Customs Organization’s (WCO) theme for 2025, “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity,” perfectly encapsulates the foundational mandates of the NCS. 

    According to him, the core responsibilities are facilitating legitimate trade, securing the national borders, and fostering economic growth – form the bedrock of the operations. 

    He said the NCS’ strategic approach harmoniously balances trade facilitation with robust security measures, directly contributing to Nigeria’s economic advancement.

    He said that the Service’s unprecedented achievement of ₦6.1 trillion in revenue collection, coupled with significant security interventions, exemplifies its practical commitment to the mandates.

    He said in pursuit of operational efficiency, the Service has made significant strides in modernizing its processes and procedures.

    Adeniyi  said it’s commitment to efficiency is evidenced by several key achievements over the years.

    He citied the notable measures accountable for the attainment to include the successful 

    implementation of the Advanced Ruling System, providing binding decisions on 

    classification and valuation before shipment arrival, thereby reducing clearance delays and disputes, is one of the resent reference to its efforts to deliver efficiency.

    Continuing, he said: “Moreover, the remarkable success of our Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, which has achieved an average release time of 43 hours for certified companies, representing a 66.9% reduction in cargo clearance time is another recent instance. 

    “Over the years the Service has modernised its processes to make the trading experience soothing for Nigerians. 

    “Late last year we announced the indigenous development and deployment of our customs clearance platform, ”Odogwu’, which has already processed transactions worth billions in revenue within its pilot phase.”

    He said in terms Security, globally there is increasingly a complex interplay between illicit trade, technological advancement, and transnational criminal networks.

    In addressing these challenges, Adeniyi  said the Service like other Customs 

    Administration, focuses on several critical risk domains identified by the World Customs Organization, and which include: Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-terrorism Financing. 

    The Customs boss said the service maintains vigilance against bulk cash smuggling, trade-based money laundering, and illicit trafficking of high-value commodities.

    He further said enforcement efforts safeguard against the illicit trafficking of cultural objects and artifacts, particularly given increasing global concerns about trafficking from conflict zones. 

    Adeniyi revealed that the service has intensified its response to evolving narcotics threats, particularly addressing the shift from traditional narcotics to pharmaceutical and synthetic drug abuse.

     In 2024,  he said this resulted in 105 seizures of narcotics and illicit drugs.

    He added: “Our enforcement actions against wildlife trafficking, illegal timber trade, and hazardous waste smuggling saw significant success, with 76 seizures of animal/wildlife products valued at ₦5.93 billion.”

    The climax of the 2025 International Customs Day was the presentation of awards to 72 officers and stakeholders for their contribution to the efficient performance of the NCS.

    Read Also: Customs seeks synergy to tackle

    In his goodwill message, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa said in the ever-evolving landscape of global trade and security challenges, the Nigeria Customs Service has consistently demonstrated its adaptability, resilience, and innovation.

    He added that the NCS dedication to embracing new technologies, implementing best practices, and fostering international cooperation have been instrumental to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of customs operations across the country.

    Seeking a synergy between the NCS and other organizations, Musa said: “As we move forward, let us continue to work in synergy with other agencies, strengthening our partnership, sharing knowledge, and leveraging our collective expertise to further improve customs processes, enhance security measures, and drive economic prosperity for our nation and its people.”

    He pledged the continuous support of the armed forces for the NCS.

    He said: “As the Chief of Defence Staff, I am proud to say that the Nigerian Armed Forces will sustain and support the Nigerian Customs Service to promote the security and prosperity of our dear nation.” 

  • Customs seeks synergy to tackle

    Customs seeks synergy to tackle

    The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has called for increased collaboration among security agencies to effectively address smuggling and its detrimental effects on Nigeria’s economy.

    Delivering a lecture to participants of Course 33 at the National Defence College (NDC) in Abuja, the Customs boss stressed the importance of synergy and mutual understanding among security agencies in tackling illicit trade and ensuring economic security.

    A press statement the NCS issued yesterday, quoted him as saying, “No single agency can effectively combat the complexities of smuggling without the support and cooperation of others.”

    He also said  “Collaborating with other security agencies is essential for effective anti-smuggling operations. It is only through synergy that we can reduce these illegal activities to the barest minimum and foster economic growth in Nigeria.”

    Read Also: Customs to sanction officers involved in promotion exams malpractice

    The lecture, held at the NDC Auditorium, provided a platform for the Comptroller-General to discuss strategies for addressing smuggling and its economic implications. The National Defence College, Nigeria’s premier institution for military and strategic studies, brings together participants from various sectors, including the armed forces, paramilitary organisations, and the civil service.

    Adeniyi’s presentation highlighted the need for a collective approach to safeguard the nation’s economic interests and underscored the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

    The event was attended by senior officers, faculty members, and participants from across the country, who described the lecture as an insightful contribution to understanding the dynamics of security and economic protection.