Tin Can Customs facilitates N1.032trn export, generates N575bn in H1

The Tincan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a boost in the volume of export cargo that left the country through the port in the first half of 2024.

Giving the half year revenue and performance report of the command in Lagos on Friday, Controller of the Command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi, said the command facilitated 489, 594.50 metric tonnes of exports with a Free on Board (FOB) value of N1,032trillion between January and June.

He said, “The total Free On Board (FOB) value of NXP for commercial goods exported through Tin Can Island Ports in the first half of 2024 is N1,032,601,044,744.00 and a total volume of 489,594.50 Metric Tons (MT) as against export value of 1st half 2023 of N182,333,764,943.00 with a total volume of 291,436MT.”

Nnadi said soya beans top the list of highest export commodity while self-adhesive products ranked lowest with a value of N92. 059bn and N17.5million respectively.

In the area of revenue collection, the CAC said the command generated N575.5billion between January and June.

The amount, he said, is an increase of N 315.2billion, representing a 221.13% increase when compared to N260billion generated in the same period of 2023.

Comptroller Nnadi attributed the feat to improved efficiency through technology like the NICIS II software and strategic engagement with stakeholders including shipping companies, terminal and barge operators.

“This aligned with the statutory functions of the Service in the areas of revenue generation, trade facilitation and enforcement/ anti-smuggling activities.

“The Command further enhanced the existing operational process to conform to the malady of the floating exchange rate regime with the use of technology made available by the NICIS II Software. Such facilities as the ‘846’ Non Standard VIN valuation application, Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR), Advance Manifest and Selectivity engine enabled a more efficient risk management process mitigating delays in cargo clearance, facilitating legitimate trade and ensuring the collection of appropriate duties and taxes.

“With these measures, the Command ensured continuity in the supply chain and the Service’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for business, ” he said.

On its anti smuggling activities, Nnadi said the command’s enforcement and anti-smuggling unit has not been relenting in its efforts to combat smuggling and all forms of criminality.

He said items seized by the command within the review period include an assortment of rifles, pistols, a used car, and large quantities of ammunition.

Others are three plastic drums concealing several packets of Cannabis Indica, 46 bags containing 2, 144 packets of Cannabis Indica all weighing 1,072kg imported from Canada with an estimated street value of N3. 2billion.

He said 877 cartons of Barcadin cough syrup with codeine- 200 bottles of 100ml per carton and 82 cartons of Really Extra Diclofenac Sodium 50mg tablets – 600 packs per carton imported from India was also seized. The approximate street value of the cough syrup is N964.3milion.

“Customs, being the lead agency at the Ports through its enforcement unit has coordinated several 100% physical examination under my supervision in collaboration with critical stakeholders to ensure that the command is freed of any form of non-compliance to the international trade cycle, ” he said.

Nnadi also highlighted the commamd’s commitment to trade facilitation with the Dispute Resolution Committee, and Help desk available to resolve disputes and address legitimate complaints of stakeholders.

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