By Innocent Orok
The Tin Can Island Port Customs Command said it’s recorded outstanding performance for the period covering January to March 2025. During this period, the Command has demonstrated exceptional growth, operational efficiency, and a continued commitment to safeguarding national interests.
According to a statement issued by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka during the visit of the House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise to the Command. Onyeka disclosed that the Command generated a total sum of ₦347,935,672.475.5 billion in the first quarter of 2025, making a significant improvement compared to the same period in 2024, which saw a revenue collection of ₦303,791,379,473.67 billion.
According to the Onyeka , the difference of ₦44,144,293,001.87 billion highlighted the remarkable growth and the effectiveness of the Command’s revenue generation strategies, reinforcing her commitment to driving economic development through improved operations and propelling a zero tolerance for revenue leakages.
He also noted that the revenue generated had an increase of approximately 14.54% compared to the same period in 2024.
The first quarter collection also represents 91.2% of the total revenue target expected in the first quarter of 2025 which was given as N381,167,499,867.64 as well as 22.81% of the annual revenue target of N1,524,699,999,478.52.
Speaking on the seizures recorded in the Command for the first quarter, Comptroller Onyeka informed the law makers that the Command recently handover illicit drugs to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) which included a combined total of 1,863 packets of Cannabis Indica, weighing 931.25 kilograms, and 97 packets of Crystal Methamphetamine, all discovered in 2x20ft containers with a total street value of over ₦8,053,125,000.00
According to the Area Controller, these achievements underscore the Command’s dedication to combating illegal activities and ensuring that national security is upheld.
In the area of stakeholders’ engagement, Comptroller Onyeka disclosed that the command maintains an excellent working relationship with cross sections of critical stakeholders, ranging from Customs Licensed Agents, Shipping companies executives, the Armed Forces and Para-Military agencies, as well as civil society organizations.
He revealed that these collaborative efforts have played a crucial role in enhancing operational efficiency, security, and the overall safety of the Port. Continuing, he said “these regular meetings, joint operations, and knowledge-sharing initiatives have further strengthened our collective ability to address security concerns and boost trade facilitation.”
In the area of Capacity building, he said the Command has recognized the importance of continuous professional development for her officers and men. He added that “as part of our commitment to fostering a highly skilled and ethical workforce, the Command had organized a series of training programs in the first quarter with key topics such as integrity, emotional intelligence in the workplace, and effective inspection and clearance classification procedures.
“These training initiatives have empowered our officers with the necessary tools to perform their duties with the utmost professionalism, ensuring that the Port operates seamlessly and in full compliance with international standards,” he said.
Comptroller Onyeka offered a firm assurance that the Command will step up its administrative and operational capacity in the upcoming quarters of 2025.
“The Command is fully committed to ensuring the maximum collection of revenue for the government, effectively addressing any revenue leakages, and continuing to optimize its processes. Furthermore, the Command will continue to engage proactively with stakeholders, working collaboratively to enhance the revenue profile of the Port and ensure that it plays a vital role in supporting national economic objectives.”
Comptroller Onyeka appreciated the members of the Committee for their visit, and noted that it was a testament to their commitment to National Development. He also praised the continued support of the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR psc (+) and his management team, as well as the critical stakeholders for their commitment to fostering a secure, efficient, and profitable operational environment at Tin Can Island Port.
In his response, the Chairman of the Committee Hon. Leke Abejide applauded the Command for manifesting professionalism in the revenue collection and assured them of the continued support and corporation of the Committee. He noted that the Committee has visited the Command over six times and was quite impressed with the revenue profile of the Command.
Abejide noted that the Committee is working assiduously to ensure that any bill relating to the Nigeria Customs Service presented before the green chamber is granted speedy hearing. He commended the CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR for the ground breaking achievements recorded since his assumption in office.
