Apapa Customs record N323bn revenue in July

The Nigeria Customs Service, Apapa Area Command, generated a record N323 billion in July 2026, its highest monthly revenue collection since inception.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, Sulaiman Isah, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday, quoting the Customs Area Controller, Emmanuel Oshoba, as making the disclosure during a meeting with Deputy Comptrollers and unit heads.

The July figure surpassed the command’s previous record of N304 billion recorded in October 2025.

Oshoba attributed the latest performance to policy reforms, improved compliance by importers and operational changes introduced by the Customs management.

He commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and the management team for driving the service’s modernisation programme, which he said had improved customs operations.

According to him, the B’Odogwu customs management system has recorded significant improvements after earlier operational challenges, while the One-Stop Shop initiative has helped reduce cargo clearance time.

He also identified the Authorised Economic Operator framework, which has more than 200 beneficiaries, as another factor contributing to improved compliance and revenue generation at the command.

Oshoba said intelligence-led enforcement had also strengthened the command’s ability to detect false declarations and enforce approved valuation principles.

He further credited the relatively stable foreign exchange market under the current administration with creating a more predictable environment for importers and other operators in the sector.

The Customs Area Controller, however, challenged officers to look beyond routine revenue collection and identify additional ways of improving revenue through effective interventions.

He also directed personnel to prioritise trade facilitation, resolve disputes promptly, maintain proper documentation and comply with the Post Clearance Audit process.

On relations with stakeholders, Oshoba urged officers to adopt a professional and respectful approach, stressing that traders and other stakeholders should leave customs offices with confidence rather than frustration.

He called for continued cooperation between the command, sister agencies and stakeholders, saying improved collaboration had contributed to greater compliance and a more orderly business environment.

Oshoba also urged personnel to maintain discipline, strengthen security awareness, undergo continuous training and adapt to emerging digital processes.

While commending customs officers and compliant stakeholders for the record performance, he described the N323 billion collection as a foundation for achieving further revenue milestones before the end of 2026.