Tin Can Customs adopts trade enabler mantra, posts record N145. 9bn revenue in January

The Controller, Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Frank Onyeka has reaffirmed that the command will pioritize the facilitation of legitimate trade, stating that the command has adopted trade enabler as it mantra for 2026.

Speaking at a media parley in Lagos on Tuesday, Onyeka said the command will move towards a model of collectable revenue rather than pursuing maximum revenue.

He said the goal is to ensure that businesses have the breathing room to thrive while meeting their statutory obligations.

Onyeka stated that the new direction is consistent with the reform agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which aims to support the economy rather than stifle it.

“We are going to facilitate trade to be seen as a trade enabler. That is the mantra we are going to adopt in 2026,” he said.

“Maxinum revenue often leave no room for a trader to handle logistics, pay staff and take care of other sundry charges. By focusing on collectable revenue, we ensure that the trader makes profit, return to the market and continues to contribute to contribute to the society. I want to be known personified as a trade enabler, ” he said.

Onyeka noted that the trade facilitation mantra is already yielding results as the command in January 2026 collected N145. 9bn in revenue, representing a 25.3 percent increase when compared to the N116. 4billion collected in January 2025.

Addressing the upcoming transition to Customs paperless operations scheduled for the end of second quarter of 2026, Onyeka pledged that his officers are fully prepared.

Though he acknowledged that network could sometimes pose challenge, he expressed optimism that if B’Odogwu platform  can thrive despite its teething challenges, the paperless transition will thrive when traders declare correctly.

“Despite the teething problem with B’Odogwu we have recorded success, so we are ready for the paperless operation. There could be network issues but I want to urge the trading public to build capacity. With that you can complete container clearance entirely online, with no physical contact with customs officers.

“If your declaration is not flagged, the process will be seamless, there will be no reason to come and see anyone.

“We cannot guarantee a perfect system from day one, but those challenges will not stop us. The more traders declare correctly and honestly, the smoother this process becomes for everyone,” he added.

Onyeka thanked the media for constructive reportage, which he said helped identified operational gaps in 2025.

He called for continued partnership with the media and deeper engagement with stakeholders, notng that many of the command’s successful seizures in the previous year were the result of intelligence and tip -off from stakeholders.

“When I resumed here, you gave me support through constructive reportage. Whatever success we have recorded here, the media played a central role. Here today, I also want to consistently crave your continued collaboration to make a big success of the paperless regime, ” he said.