The House of Representatives Committee on Customs has applauded the Tin Can Island port command of the Nigeria Customs Service for its impressive revenue collection and anti smuggling efforts.
Chairman of the Committee, Leke Abejide who gave the commendation when he led members of the committee on a visit to the command said he was impressed with the professionalism manifested in revenue generation and assured of the committee’s continued support.
He 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.
Abejide’s commendation followed the disclosure by Controller of the Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka that the command generated N347.93 billion in the first quarter of 2025, marking a N44. 14 billion improvement on the N303.79billion collected in the same period of 2024.
According to the Controller, the difference of N44.14billion 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.
The Controller also noted that the revenue generated, which was a 14.54% increase compared to the same period of 2024, represents 91.2% of the total revenue target of N381,16billion for the first quarter of 2025 as well as 22.81% of the annual revenue target of N1.52trillion.
Speaking on the seizures recorded in the command for the first quarter, Comptroller Onyeka informed the lawmakers that the command recently handed over 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 N8,053,125,000.00
According to the Controller, these achievements underscore the Command’s dedication to combating illegal activities and ensuring that national security is upheld.
With regards to stakeholders’ engagement, Comptroller Onyeka disclosed that Tincan 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 that 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, the Area Controller said the Command has recognized the importance of continuous professional development for her officers and men.
He added that as part of its commitment to fostering a highly skilled and ethical workforce, the Command has 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, he said, have empowered 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.
The Controller 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,” he said.
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 and his management team, as well as the critical stakeholders for their commitment to fostering a secure, efficient, and profitable operational environment at Tincan Island Port.
This information was disseminated via a press statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Oscar Ivara.
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