The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has posted a record-breaking revenue performance for 2025, collecting N7.2 trillion exceeding its initial target of N6.5 trillion by N697 billion and marking a substantial increase from the N6.1 trillion gathered in 2024.
Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi disclosed the figures during the International Customs Day ceremony in Abuja, highlighting the agency’s strong operational results amid efforts to modernise processes and strengthen border enforcement.
The revenue surge was driven largely by improved collections at key seaports. Tin Can Island Port emerged as a standout performer, generating approximately N1.57 trillion — up from N1.25 trillion the previous year. Apapa Port, the country’s largest revenue contributor, recorded around N2.93 trillion, reflecting more than 20% growth year-on-year. Adeniyi credited the gains to effective leadership, the deployment of the Unified Customs Management System (known as B’Odogwu), and enhanced technology-driven processes that improved cargo clearance and revenue capture.
Beyond revenue, NCS intensified enforcement efforts throughout the year, seizing over 2,000 consignments of prohibited and restricted items valued at N59 billion. The intercepted goods included narcotics, counterfeit products, arms, wildlife products, and other harmful materials, demonstrating the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health, security, and national revenue.
Despite the impressive financial and enforcement outcomes, Adeniyi acknowledged persistent challenges in Nigeria’s port system. Cargo clearance delays remain a concern, largely due to structural bottlenecks rather than Customs-specific inefficiencies. He stressed that meaningful improvement will require coordinated action among Customs, port authorities, terminal operators, and other maritime stakeholders.
Looking forward, the NCS outlined several strategic priorities for 2026. These include expanding digital systems, installing additional high-capacity cargo scanners at strategic ports, and launching a Time Release Study to measure and streamline trade facilitation processes — all aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness.
In a notable policy update, Adeniyi confirmed that the Service has begun implementing arrangements for the temporary importation of non-commercial vehicles for tourism or business purposes, subject to compliance with customs regulations. This move is expected to ease travel for international visitors bringing personal vehicles into the country.
The N7.2 trillion haul represents one of the strongest revenue performances in NCS history and provides a significant boost to federal coffers at a time when government seeks to reduce reliance on borrowing. Analysts say the results reflect both improved enforcement and the benefits of ongoing digitalisation efforts, though sustained progress will depend on addressing port infrastructure constraints and maintaining momentum in trade facilitation reforms.
