Apapa Customs Command Records N1.37 Trillion Revenue, Seizes N9.26 Billion Worth of Contraband
By Ranmilowo Ojalumo – The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a revenue collection of over N1.37 trillion in the first half of 2025, representing a 35 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.
The Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller BO Olomu, disclosed this on Thursday, July 3, 2025, during a mid-year press conference held at the Command headquarters in Lagos.
Addressing journalists, Comptroller Olomu commended members of the press for their consistent support, which he described as invaluable to the Command’s operations since he assumed office about a year ago.
According to him, the Apapa Command generated a total revenue of ₦1,378,059,019,245.20, marking a significant rise from the ₦1,023,663,842,255.63 collected during the corresponding period in 2024. This represents an increase of over ₦354 billion within the period under review.
Olomu attributed the impressive revenue performance to the diligence of Customs officers and compliant traders operating at the port.
“On my watch and under the direction of the CGC, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, we have always insisted on maximum collection of government revenue by preventing leakages and applying demand notices (DN) where and when necessary,” he said.
He expressed optimism that with the current revenue trajectory, the Command is poised to achieve or surpass its annual revenue target for 2025.
“I have urged my officers and men to brace up and redouble their efforts to make surpassing the target a reality,” Olomu added.
On trade facilitation, the Customs boss highlighted significant progress in trade facilitation, including the deployment of the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), popularly known as B’Odogwu, at the Apapa Command.
He noted that the Command achieved the issuance of the first Single Goods Declaration (SGD) using the B’Odogwu platform on May 9, 2025, a milestone he described as a major step towards faster and more reliable cargo handling.
“In addition to the issuance of the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) using the homegrown technology, we have created a robust platform that facilitates trade and ensures the swift clearance of cargo,” he said.
Olomu explained that the Command is addressing challenges such as poor network connectivity, delays, and port congestion, which were associated with the former system.
In a related development, he disclosed that the Command, under the guidance of the CGC, has commenced talks with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) and other stakeholders to develop a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the movement of goods by rail from Apapa Port to other states.
“I am pleased to express that the talks have shown prospects for success with pledges of support and anticipation for robust participation by all concerned,” Olomu stated.
He emphasized that reviving cargo movement by rail is expected to decongest the port, reduce pressure on the Apapa roads, and provide a viable and cost-effective cargo movement option for importers, exporters, freight forwarding practitioners, haulage operators, and licensed customs agents.
On anti smuggling, the Customs Area Controller revealed that the Command seized 27 containers of prohibited items between January and June 2025, with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦9,267,443,966.00.
Showcasing nine containers recently seized, Olomu disclosed that they comprised unregistered pharmaceuticals, used clothing, expired margarine, wild animal skins, and codeine syrup.
The full breakdown of the seizures includes: 10 containers of unregistered pharmaceuticals, 2 containers of codeine syrup, 2 containers of stolen vehicles, 4 containers of second-hand clothing and other sundry prohibited items.
“These seizures are a fallout of our efforts at preventing Nigerians from unwholesome foods and drugs, stopping illicit trade, and protecting our local industries,” Olomu said.
He emphasized that the health, well-being, and safety of Nigerians will never be compromised on the altar of trade facilitation, adding that all consignments passing through the port undergo diligent checks, including scanning and physical examination when required.
Olomu noted that the trafficking of wild animals contravenes the Convention on Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), to which Nigeria is a signatory. He also revealed that a container of matches imported without the required End User Certificate (EUC) was among the detained items.
In addition, the Command sealed three bonded terminals under its jurisdiction for various infractions. One of the terminals has been charged to court for prosecution, while investigations are ongoing on the remaining two.
He warned perpetrators of illegal activities to desist, stating: “Apapa Port Command is manned by eagle-eyed officers, who are activated to detect and seize uncustom goods with a clear mandate to arrest perpetrators. We have demonstrated our capacity in this regard and we shall continue to do more.”
Olomu also acknowledged the support of other government agencies, commending their contributions towards national security through intelligence sharing and joint operations.
“Our togetherness has always stood as great blows to criminals and their activities. We shall continue strengthening the bond,” he affirmed.
The Customs Area Controller appreciated all stakeholders for their support, even as he reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to revenue generation, trade facilitation, and national security.
