… aims to surpass 2025 target, as it engages stakeholders
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at the Tincan Island Port Command has reported a total revenue generation of N116,412,735,766.23 in the month of January.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, disclosed this on Thursday during his engagement with a broad spectrum of stakeholders.
The figure, according to him represented a significant increase when compared to the amount collected in January 2024, which was N88,430,126,122.76.
The difference between the two figures is N27,982,609,643.47, which corresponds to a 24.06 per cent increase year-over-year.
Onyeka expressed optimism regarding the continued growth, stating that the Command is on track to surpass its 2025 annual target of N1,524,699,999,478.52, as he is taking adequate steps to maintain the momentum throughout the year.
Meanwhile, the stakeholders meeting was aimed at sensitising them on the implementation of the 4% Free on Board (FOB) levy and the new Unified Customs Management System known as B’Odogwu.
The stakeholders include importers, Customs brokers, shipping agents, and other key players in the trade sector.
This was in continuation of his effort and renewed drive to bring stakeholders up to speed on some of the emerging policies of the NCS.
The interactive sessions, which were held in the Command on Thursday 6 and Friday February 7, 2025, brought together experts from both the private and public sectors, and created an open forum for dialogue on the operational implications of these new initiatives.
Onyeka noted that these developments were meant to streamline Nigeria’s Customs processes while improving efficiency and transparency within the trade and importation landscape.
He emphasised the importance of these reforms, particularly the 4% FOB levy, which applies to the value of goods at the point of import.
According to him, the 4% FOB levy which was provided for in Section 18 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 was expected to boost the operational efficiency of the service in line with International best practices.
Additionally, he stated that the introduction of the B’Odogwu Clearance System was highlighted as a step towards modernising the Customs clearance process, reducing bottlenecks, and enhancing compliance. He announced that the scheme will soon be launched in the Command.
On some of his reforms introduced in the Command so far, the CAC said he was creating a more trade-friendly environment for all port activities to strive. He reiterated that the era of multiple alerts were over, and stressed that honest declarations and thorough examinations must be emphasised.
He promised to continue to engage with stakeholders, as this is a crucial part of ensuring the success of these initiatives.
“Through constant collaboration and feedback, we aim to address concerns, foster a better understanding of the processes, and ultimately ensure smooth implementation of these policies,” Onyeka stated.
The directives from the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, to initiate these consultations underscores the commitment of the Service to transparency, effective communication, and partnership with stakeholders as it navigates through the evolving landscape of international trade.