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Customs

Q1 2025 Report: NCS Exceeds Revenue Targets, Seizes N7.7bn in Contraband

by Editor April 23, 2025

written by Editor

By Chibuike Nwabuko

ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reported a robust performance in the first quarter of 2025, showcasing major strides in revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations, trade facilitation, and modernization.

The Comptroller-General, Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi stated this during the quarterly press briefing on Tuesday, emphasized transparency and accountability as the Service released key data reflecting its impact under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and with the help of the Finance Minister Wale Edun.

Revenue Collection Surpasses Expectations
Alhaji Adeniyi noted that the NCS collected a total of ₦1.75 trillion in Q1 2025, exceeding its quarterly revenue target of ₦1.645 trillion by over ₦106 billion, achieving 106.47% performance. This figure also represents a 29.96% year-on-year increase from Q1 2024’s ₦1.35 trillion, he said.

Similarly, monthly breakdowns highlight January’s ₦647.9 billion collection—a 65.77% growth compared to January 2024. February and March followed with ₦540.1 billion and ₦563.5 billion respectively, both exceeding targets and continuing the upward trend.

Smuggling Clampdown Yields Results
According to the Customs Boss, officers made 298 seizures in Q1, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦7.7 billion—a 78.41% increase from Q4 2024. While slightly lower than Q1 2024’s total, the decrease is credited to improved compliance and deterrent enforcement.

He said seized items included:

– 135,474 bags of rice (₦939.3 million)

– 65,819 liters of petroleum products (₦43.3 million)

– 22 narcotics seizures (₦730.7 million)

– Three wildlife seizures (₦5.65 billion)

Other items like textile fabrics, pharmaceuticals, and used tires were also seized.

Adeniyi also highlighted that an intelligence-led strategy, enhanced border monitoring, and collaborations with international partners play crucial role to counter illicit trade.

Trade Grows Despite Global Headwinds
The quarterly briefing confirmed that import processing rose by 5.28% to 327,928 declarations, while import weight and value surged by over 40% and 26% respectively, signaling increased trade activity.

On the export side, fewer transactions were recorded, but shipment volume jumped 348% year-on-year to 5.03 billion kilograms. Export value held steady at over ₦21 trillion, indicating a shift toward larger, bulk exports with improved efficiency.

He hinted that the Modernization and Social Impact Drive Transformation key initiatives in Q1 2025 include:

Expansion of the B’Odogwu digital customs platform across more regions, improving clearance efficiency.

Launch of the Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) Programme, which recognizes and rewards compliant businesses.

Debut of “Customs Cares”, a national Corporate Social Responsibility program that delivered school supplies, medical outreach, and solar lighting to communities.

According to the C-G, in support of national food security, Customs implemented import duty exemptions on key staples like rice, maize, and sorghum, contributing to food price reductions of up to 18%.

He however stated that these achievements were not recorded without challenges but also assured that solutions are underway.

According to him, key challenges included currency exchange volatility—62 rate changes in Q1 alone—and operational adjustments following the suspension of the Financial Customs Service Operation (FCSO). Additionally, a 14% U.S. tariff on Nigerian exports raised concerns over international trade relations. Despite these issues, the NCS reaffirmed its commitment to modernization, transparency, and stakeholder collaboration.

In line with his vision for a modern Customs Services, Alhaji Adeniyi assured that as 2025 progresses, Customs will focus on expanding digital solutions, enhancing risk management systems, and improving service delivery. The Service aims to solidify its role as a trade facilitator and guardian of Nigeria’s economic interests, he added.

He therefore thanked customs officers, federal government, trade partners, and the media for their continued support. “The numbers show we’re delivering,” he stated, reaffirming the NCS’s dedication to national development.

He reiterated that Customs under his watch remains committed to building a modern, efficient Customs Service that protects Nigeria’s borders, supports lawful trade, and improves lives.

April 23, 2025 0 comments

News

7 Million CFA Seized at Ogun Border by Customs, Forwarded to EFCC

by Arabella Zikora March 25, 2025

written by Arabella Zikora

The Area Controller for Ogun 1 Command of Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Mohammed Shuaibu, said the command has intercepted 7 million CFA equivalent to N17 million at the Idiroko border area of the State.

Shuaibu disclosed this on Tuesday, during a press briefing and handing over of the cash to officers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, led by Head of Investigation, EFCC Lagos Zone 2, Oguzi Moses, at the Idiroko command headquarters.

The Area controller stated that the francophone countries’ currency were intercepted on Thursday at the Idiroko border.

Giving details of how the money was intercepted, Shuaibu explained that the currency was found hidden in a bag en route to the Republic of Benin.

He added that when the bag, which was suspected to be carrying unlawful contents was spotted, operatives of the command gave it a thorough examination and new mint foreign currency notes were tucked inside it.

Shuaibu stated that the seized foreign currency notes which are also equivalent to $11,000, were handed over to the EFCC because it is the agency saddled with tackling illicit currency flow into Nigeria.

According to Shuaibu, the EFCC was given the confiscated foreign currency notes, which are also equivalent to $11,000, since it is the organisation tasked with combating the illegal flow of money into Nigeria, adding that handing over the currency is equally intended to promote interagency cooperation between the NCS, EFCC, and other sister agencies.

His word: “We must continue to send the right signal to discourage other people from indulging in the despicable act of smuggling. The command under my leadership is committed to the strict implementation of the Federal Government fiscal policies and the extent laws that govern the day-to-day operations of the service at the international corridor. I wish to advise the border communities to discourage and desist from any unscrupulous act of smuggling activity”, Shuaibu submitted.

Responding, Oguzi, commended the officers and operatives of Ogun 1 Area Command of the NSC for their vigilance and thorough scrutiny of baggage coming into the country through the Idiroko border post.

He assured that a thorough investigation would be carried out to uncover the circumstances surrounding the interception.

“As we take over this case, the EFCC will conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding this interception and ensure that due process is followed. Let this serve as a reminder that no effort will be spared in holding accountable those who seek to undermine the integrity of our financial systems”, Oguzi said.

March 25, 2025 0 comments

News

Just In: Customs Hands Over 3,897 Arms, Ammunition to Centre

by Editor February 13, 2025

written by Editor

By Our Reporter

ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Thursday handed over a total of 3,897 arms and ammunition to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW).

Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, stated that 1,599 arms and 2,298 rounds of ammunition were handed over.

Adeniyi explained that the seized arms and ammunition were intercepted between 2018 and 2024.

He noted that in 2018, the Service intercepted 440 arms concealed in 516 bags of plaster of Paris.

The CGC added that the seizure highlighted the Service’s active collaboration with stakeholders to keep illegal weapons off the streets and strengthen public safety.

He recalled that in May 2018, the Service intercepted a significant batch of arms, including 440 pump-action rifles and accessories, ingeniously concealed within 516 bags of plaster of Paris cement in a 20-foot container numbered PONU 210024/1.

Through sustained intelligence operations, Adeniyi said the Service intercepted two additional containers with registration numbers CMAU 189817/8 and GESU 255208/1 at Tincan Island Port, which similarly contained arms and ammunition hidden among sanitary wares.

“Today’s handover encompasses a total of 1,599 assorted arms and 2,298 live cartridges recovered from these operations,” Adeniyi said.

ALSO READ: Customs uncovers four illegal beverage factories in Ogun

He added that the seizure coincided with heightened security challenges from armed bandits in the Northwest and the proliferation of illegal arms in the Southeast.

Providing details of the interception, Adeniyi said the Service deployed forensic capabilities to conduct detailed electronic analysis of Customs documentation and shipping records through established diplomatic channels.

He explained that the NCS partnered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to engage Turkish authorities, leading to the definitive identification of the purchasing company.

Related Post
Customs suspends 4% FOB charge
Group calls for extension of Customs CG’s tenure
“The investigation trail, supported by financial records obtained through court orders in Nigeria, enabled us to establish the identities of those behind these illegal arms shipments,” he said.

Adeniyi further stated that, through strategic inter-agency cooperation, particularly with assistance from the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, the Service successfully prosecuted the case.

He noted that the successful prosecution reinforces the NCS’s zero-tolerance stance on arms trafficking and validates the effectiveness of judicial collaboration.

Earlier, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, commended the synergy between the Office of the National Security Adviser and the 16 government arms-bearing agencies, particularly the Nigeria Customs Service.

Ribadu, represented by the Director-General of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, Johnson Babatunde Kokumo (DIG Rtd), emphasized that the NCS’s commitment is vital to the collective fight against the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons.

“I recall with pride the notable arms bust of July 2024 when the NCS intercepted 844 rifles and 112,500 rounds of live ammunition at Onne Port in Port Harcourt.

“The recovered weapons were promptly handed over to the Centre, and the suspects, including the principal actors, were arrested.

“Regarding today’s handover of intercepted illicit arms by the NCS, the Centre will take all necessary measures, in line with relevant conventions and best practices, to permanently remove these weapons from circulation,” Ribadu said.

He highlighted that since its establishment in 2021, the Centre has spearheaded multi-stakeholder initiatives to curb the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons.

The NSA stated that by effectively managing the entire lifecycle of small arms and light weapons—from registration and tracking to seizure and destruction—the Centre actively strengthens collective security and aligns with global efforts to combat the illicit arms trade.

(Tribune)

February 13, 2025 0 comments

News

Saraki Kicks Over Customs’ New 4% Administration Charge Amid Economic Strain

by Editor February 8, 2025

written by Editor

By Chibuike Nwabuko

ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The president of the 8th Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki has kicked over the Nigerian government’s decision to impose a 4% customs administration charge on the Free On Board (FOB) value of imports saying that, estimates suggest that it could result in an additional N2.84 trillion in costs. With annual imports valued at N71 trillion, this new fee will place a substantial burden on importers, leaving many questioning whether the Customs Service truly requires such an amount to carry out its operations.

Notably, the Nigerian Customs Service already operates with an allocated budget and receives incentive payments based on the total customs duties collected. The additional fee raises doubts about whether more funding is truly necessary, especially in a country where millions of citizens are already grappling with poverty and businesses are struggling, Saraki said on Saturday when he took to his X account handle.

The new charge, set to generate more than $1.5 billion in running costs for the Customs Service, is drawing sharp criticism in light of Nigeria’s economic realities. Importers are expected to pass the additional costs onto consumers, exacerbating the financial pressures faced by households already dealing with rising costs.

Of particular concern is that the 4% fee applies to all imports, including essential raw materials used by local industries. For businesses that import materials with a modest 5% duty, this new administrative charge would mean an extra 80% in fees on top of the original duty amount—potentially crippling businesses that rely on affordable imports to produce goods.

This latest move contradicts the government’s stated policy of easing the business environment, as it adds significant operational costs across various sectors. Industry stakeholders are calling for the government to urgently reassess and put a hold on the policy, stressing that the timing is particularly inopportune given the current economic struggles faced by the country’s citizens.

As pressure mounts, Nigerians are questioning whether this additional burden will further hinder the economy or, if re-evaluated, could serve to ease the burden on businesses and consumers alike.

Precise Post recalls that on Wednesday it was reported that Nigeria Customs Service is implementing a 4 per cent charge on the Free On-Board value of imports.

The Spokesman of the service, Abdullahi Maiwada, who made this known in a statement explained that the directive was in line with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023.

“In line with the provisions of Section 18 (1) of NCSA 2023, the NCS is implementing a 4 per cent charge on the Free On-Board (FOB) value of imports.

“The FOB charge, which is calculated based on the value of imported goods, including the cost of goods and transportation expenses incurred up to the port of loading, is essential to driving the effective operation of the service.

“Furthermore, the NCS acknowledges concerns raised by stakeholders over the sustained collection of 1 per cent Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS) fee.

“It is a regulatory charge imposed for funding Nigeria’s Destination Inspection Scheme alongside the 4 per cent FOB charge.

“As a responsive government agency, the service wishes to assure the general public that extensive consultation is ongoing with the Federal Ministry of Finance to address all agitations raised by our esteemed stakeholders, “ he said.

He urged all stakeholders to comply with the directive, which was conceived after extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders and organisations.

“All stakeholders are urged to support this legally binding initiative.

“As the measures introduced in alignment with the NCSA 2023 reflect a balanced approach born out of extensive consultations with industry players, importers, and regulatory bodies,” he said.

He described the contribution of stakeholders in shaping and actualising the NCSA 2023 as invaluable.

“Their insights, expertise, and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in ensuring a robust legal framework that enhances efficiency, promotes innovation and strengthens transparency in customs operations.

According to him, under the leadership of the Comptroller-General, Adewale Adeniyi, the service remains committed to transparency, fair trade practices, and efficient revenue management.

With our annual imports estimated at N71 trillion, the new 4% customs administration charge on Free On Board (FOB) value will come to N2.84 trillion. Does this mean that the Customs Service requires an additional N2.84 trillion annually to do its job?

Don't forget they already…
— Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki (@bukolasaraki) February 8, 2025

February 8, 2025 0 comments

News

Tragedy in Osun: Customs Officer and Family Perish in Midnight Blaze

by Arabella Zikora December 2, 2024

written by Arabella Zikora

Tragedy struck in the early hours of Monday as a devastating fire engulfed the residence of a Customs officer, Tijani Kabiru, attached to the Oyo/Osun Command, killing him, his wife, and four of their children in the Akankan Area of Ede, Osun State.

The midnight inferno has left the community in shock and mourning.

Residents woke to the heartbreaking news of the family’s demise, sparking panic and disbelief.

A neighbour, Kola, who witnessed the tragic event, recalled, “I can’t say when the fire started, but we observed smoke there at about 3am.

“The response time of the firemen was not bad, but the house had been badly affected before the fire could be subdued. Kabiru, his wife, and four children were already burnt to death. But one of the children escaped.”

According to Kola, firefighters from the Ede Fire Station were promptly contacted after smoke was detected.

However, by the time they arrived, the fire had already consumed much of the house.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Osun State Fire Service, Ibraheem Adekunle, shared a statement signed by the Director of the Service, Mr Olaniyi Alimi.

The statement read, “We were informed of the incident via a distress call to our emergency number 08030808254 at 3:21 a.m. Our team from Ede Zonal Command proceeded to the scene, with a backup team joining from the Fire Service Headquarters in Abere.

“The address of the fire incident is Customs Tijani Kabiru Road, Akankan Area, Ede North LG. The street was named after the deceased, who was a Customs officer from the Oyo/Osun Command.

“Mr. Tijani Kabiru, reported to be in his late 40s, and his wife, said to be in her early 40s, lost their lives alongside four of their children—three boys and a girl—aged between three nd 10 years. The estimated loss from the inferno is around N200 million, while property worth N500 million was saved.”

The lone survivor, a 13-year-old boy, miraculously escaped the blaze.

The remains of the deceased were handed over to officers from the A’ Division of the Nigeria Police Force.

December 2, 2024 0 comments

News

Customs hands over illicit drugs worth N117.59m to NDLEA

by Content Admin November 22, 2024

written by Content Admin

OGUN- The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun Area 1 Command, has handed over illicit drugs worth N117.59 million to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The Comptroller of the command, Mr James Ojo, disclosed this during the handing over of the drugs to Mr Olusegun Adeyeye, the Commander of NDLEA, Idiroko Special Area Command, in Abeokuta, Ogun, on Friday.

Ojo said the customs handed over the seized cannabis and tramadol tablets to the Idiroko Special Command for further investigation in line with the standard operating procedures and inter-agency collaboration.

He said the illicit drugs were seized in various strategic locations between January and November 21, 2024, in Ogun State.

He added that the illicit drugs were abandoned at various locations, including the Abeokuta axis, the Agbawo/Igankoto area of Yewa North Local Government Area, and Imeko Afton axis.

Ojo said that the seizure of the cannabis sativa and tramaling tablets, another brand of tramadol, was made possible through credible intelligence and strategic operations of the customs personnel.

“The successful interception of these dangerous substances would not have been possible without the robust collaboration and support from our intelligence units, local informants and sister agencies.

“These landmark operations are testament to the unwavering dedication of the NCS to safeguard the health and well-being of our citizens and uphold the rule of law,” he said.

He said the seizures comprised 403 sacks and 6,504 parcels, weighing 7,217.7 kg and 362 packs of tramaling tablets of 225mg each, with a total Duty Paid Value of N117,587,405,00.

He described the height of illicit drugs smuggling in the recent time as worrisome.

This, he said, underscores the severity of drug trafficking within the borders.

“Between Oct. 13 and Nov. 12 alone, operatives intercepted a total of 1,373 parcels of cannabis sativa, weighing 1,337kg and 362 packs of tramaling tablets of 225mg each,” he said.

Ojo said the seizures had disrupted the supply chain of illicit drugs, thereby mitigating the risks those substances posed to the youth, families and communities.

He lauded the synergy between its command, security agencies and other stakeholders that led to the remarkable achievements.

Ojo also commended the Comptroller General of NCS for creating an enabling environment for the command to achieve the success.

Responding, Adeyeye, applauded the customs for achieving the feat.

Adeyeye pledged to continue to collaborate with the customs to fight against illicit trade and drug trafficking in the state.(NAN)

November 22, 2024 0 comments

News

Customs Seize Military Camouflage, Illicit Drugs in Rivers Operation

by Arabella Zikora September 5, 2024

written by Arabella Zikora

The Area 2 Command, Onne, Rivers State of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has intercepted 12 containers laden with military/paramilitary equipment and illicit drugs worth N31 billion.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr Bashir Adeniyi, made this known while briefing newsmen on Wednesday at Onne, Rivers.

The seized items include 4,800 pairs of military/paramilitary camouflage, rain boots, various rubber footwear, chilly cutters and cough syrup with codeine.

Others are Tramadol and other illicit drugs, all with a total duty value of N31,200,688,142.

Adeniyi condemned the continued violation of import guidelines by some individuals who were engaging the route for illicit businesses.

He declared a three-month emergency protocol at Onne Port to check the trend, adding that henceforth, NCS will be conducting thorough examinations of all suspected containers.

‘’If the owners do not come forward for examination, we will open these containers to verify their contents; this is a temporary, but necessary measure to clean up the port and restore its integrity.

”We shall leave no stone unturned in the fight against economic sabotage, in collaboration with sister agencies.

‘’We will bring the full weight of the law upon anyone found complicit in crime against our nation,” he said.

The comptroller-general, however, assured the business community and legitimate importers of readiness to ensure a safe and secure environment for genuine business activities.

According to him, the command will ensure that lawful shipments get timely and efficient attention during the period.

Adeniyi attributed operational achievement of the command to effective synergy amongst security agencies and stakeholders.

He also urged the public to contribute their quota to security through information sharing.

September 5, 2024 0 comments

Business

Food Inflation: FG suspends import duties, taxes on essential food

by Editor July 30, 2024

written by Editor

By Udochukwu

ABUJA FCT – The Nigerian government, through the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adeniyi has announced the suspension of import duties and taxes on essential food items to make basic necessities more affordable for Nigerians and address the prevalent food inflation in the nation.

Precise Post recalls that this may not be unconnected with the hardship induced nationwide protest scheduled to start from August 1, 2024 to August 10, 2024 which has caused panic within the corridors of power.

In a public address on Monday evening, Adeniyi acknowledged the widespread economic challenges and outlined the government’s commitment to easing the financial burden on its citizens.

He acknowledged that global inflation is impacting nations worldwide, including Nigeria, noting that to address this, the federal government, through the Nigeria Customs Service, is suspending import duties and taxes on essential food items to make them more affordable.

Adeniyi also stated that the NCS has streamlined export processes to facilitate the efficient movement of Nigerian goods to international markets.

He said this initiative includes the introduction of advanced ruling systems, authorised economic operators, and a time-release study designed to enhance trade, stimulate the economy, and create new opportunities.

Adeniyi emphasised that these reforms will provide farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs with a faster path to global markets, thereby benefiting their families and communities.

“We are committed to implementing this measure seamlessly to address the problem of hunger in our nation,” he added.

He said in addition to economic measures, the NCS is intensifying its efforts to combat the proliferation of arms and dangerous weapons through Nigeria’s land, sea, and airports.

Adeniyi stressed the importance of collective efforts and peaceful progress to strengthen the country’s borders.
He warned that the destruction of the supply chain affects foreign investment, distorts trade, promotes instability, increases scarcity, and hinders revenue collection.

July 30, 2024 0 comments

News

Customs generates N92.3m in 3 months in Ogun

by Edit July 8, 2024

written by Edit

OGUN- Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun Area 1 Command, says it generated N92.3 million as revenue between April and June.
The command’s Comptroller of Customs, Mr James Ojo, disclosed this at a news conference on Monday in Abeokuta.
Ojo said that the revenue represented about 52.46 per cent increase, compared with the N53,983,622 recorded within the same period in 2023.

He said that the command also surpassed the monthly revenue target of N34,122,666.90 in June by 77.86 per cent.
“Our enforcement activities had led to significant interception of prohibited goods like 219 sacks and 1,725 parcels of cannabis sativa, 940 rounds of lives ammunition and 44,466 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

Other items are: 2,227 pieces of pneumatic foreign-used tyres, 64 bakes and 222 sacks of used clothes, 2,947 cartons of frozen poultry products and 7,015 bags of foreign parboiled rice.
“Also, 21 units of vehicles, three units of motorcycles and 115 pairs of used shoes with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N770,666,237,00 were also intercepted,” Ojo said.
He said that the seizures were made possible through the command’s relentless fight against smuggling as well as the determination to protect the local economy, ensure public health and safety, and uphold the integrity of the borders.
“The achievement is a testament to the diligence, commitment and professionalism of our officers and men who worked tirelessly to ensure that we meet and exceed our revenue targets.

It is also indicative of our unwavering commitment to the economic growth and development of our nation,” he said.
The comptroller further stated that the interception of the prohibited items was a clear indication of the effectiveness of the command’s intelligence-driven approach and the robust strategies it had put in place.
According to him, the success aligns with the policy thrust of the Comptroller-General of Customs (C-G), Bashir Adeniyi, who has championed the principles of consolidation, collaboration and innovation.

He applauded Adeniyi’s visionary leadership and enabling support which had been crucial in enhancing our capabilities and driving the ‘impressive’ results.
The controller noted that smuggled cannabis sativa and foreign-used pneumatic tyres had adverse effects on the citizenry.
He commended the traditional rulers and other security agencies in the state for their support toward combating smuggling and enhancing economic growth and national security. (NAN)

July 8, 2024 0 comments

Customs

Q1 2025 Report: NCS Exceeds Revenue Targets, Seizes N7.7bn in Contraband

7 Million CFA Seized at Ogun Border by Customs, Forwarded to EFCC

Just In: Customs Hands Over 3,897 Arms, Ammunition to Centre

Saraki Kicks Over Customs’ New 4% Administration Charge Amid Economic Strain

Tragedy in Osun: Customs Officer and Family Perish in Midnight Blaze

Customs hands over illicit drugs worth N117.59m to NDLEA

Customs Seize Military Camouflage, Illicit Drugs in Rivers Operation

Food Inflation: FG suspends import duties, taxes on essential food

Customs generates N92.3m in 3 months in Ogun

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