The Nigeria Customs Service has recorded a remarkable revenue generation of N1.3 trillion in the first quarter of 2025, more than doubling the N600 billion collected during the same period in 2023.
According to The PUNCH, Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, attributed the significant boost to enhanced operational efficiency under the reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He disclosed this in a forthcoming documentary to mark the President’s second year in office, with excerpts shared by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga.
“This surge in revenue is not a result of increased imports, which have actually declined due to foreign exchange challenges,” Adeniyi clarified. “What has made the difference is our improved efficiency, greater transparency, and stricter enforcement mechanisms.”
Adeniyi revealed that the Service is preparing to implement the $3.2 billion E-Customs Modernisation Project aimed at fully digitizing cargo processing, surveillance, and payment systems across Nigeria’s ports and borders.
“We are transitioning from a manual, paper-based system to a fully digital platform,” he said. “Once fully operational, the E-Customs initiative is expected to generate a cumulative revenue of $250 billion over the next two decades.”
As part of its reforms, the NCS has launched the Authorised Economic Operator Programme, which offers pre-vetted and compliant importers faster cargo clearance and reduced port congestion.
“This programme is designed to reward trust and compliance. Compliant traders receive expedited processing, a practice that aligns with global customs standards,” Adeniyi noted.
In its bid to eliminate revenue leakages, the Customs Service has intensified enforcement efforts and anti-smuggling operations, leading to the recovery of over N64 billion from previously under-assessed imports within nine months. Adeniyi also disclosed the dismantling of major smuggling rings at key borders, including Seme, Idiroko, Katsina, and Sokoto.
“We have moved beyond the traditional model of chasing smugglers through the bushes. With real-time intelligence, surveillance drones, and data analytics, we’re closing systemic loopholes,” he said.
To reduce trade bottlenecks, Adeniyi announced the accelerated rollout of the National Single Window, a digital portal that integrates all agencies involved in cargo clearance.
“Currently, importers deal manually with up to 15 government agencies. The Single Window will streamline this process online, reducing both time and cost. At Apapa and Tin Can Ports, clearance timelines have dropped from 21 days to 7–10 days for compliant importers,” he explained.
The NCS has also introduced fast-track lanes for agro-exporters and is working with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council to facilitate outbound trade, in support of the government’s push for non-oil exports.
“In 2024, Nigeria formally exported over N340 billion worth of solid minerals and agricultural products, marking a 38% increase from the previous year. Our goal is to surpass that figure in 2025,” Adeniyi said.
On capacity building, the Comptroller-General confirmed that more than 1,800 customs officers have undergone training in areas such as artificial intelligence, risk profiling, and data analytics.
“We are transforming into an intelligence-driven organization. Our personnel are being equipped to meet international best practices,” he added. “President Tinubu’s directive is clear: seal leakages, boost revenue, and facilitate trade without burdening citizens. We are delivering on that mandate.”
The Customs boss emphasized that the NCS is committed to sustaining these gains and positioning itself as a key driver of Nigeria’s economic transformation.
