The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) reported a substantial rise in revenue collection, reaching 2.93 trillion in 2025—a 24.32 % increase over the 2.36 trillion recorded in 2024. Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, the Customs Area Controller, credited this growth to focused leadership, disciplined personnel, strategic technology deployment, and improved compliance by importers.
Efforts to curb illicit trade also yielded notable results. The command seized cargo worth 12.63 billion, including cocaine, tramadol and other prohibited items, and handed the consignments over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
The introduction of advanced systems such as the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS/B’Odogwu) has enhanced transparency, efficiency and cargo clearance speed. Complementary initiatives, including the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) and One‑Stop Shop (OSS) programs, further bolstered performance.
Looking ahead, Comptroller Oshoba expressed optimism that 2026 could deliver even stronger results. Plans include expanding automation, strengthening enforcement, and deepening inter‑agency collaboration. The forthcoming FS6000 cargo‑scanning system—a non‑intrusive inspection technology—is expected to reinforce enforcement while facilitating faster clearance.
The Apapa Customs command’s strong performance reflects a broader trend of improved revenue generation for Nigeria’s ports, signaling positive prospects for government finances and trade facilitation. The command also praised importers, agents and port operators for adhering to lawful trade practices, which significantly boosted revenue.
To build on this success, the command remains committed to sustained engagement with terminal operators, shipping companies, licensed customs agents, freight forwarders, haulage operators and the media. With full implementation of the B’Odogwu platform, AEO and OSS initiatives, enhanced intelligence‑led enforcement and deeper inter‑agency collaboration, the command is poised to achieve even better outcomes in the coming year.
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