In a remarkable display of operational excellence, the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) under the leadership of Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Martina Tilley-Gyado, achieved significant milestones in 2023, surpassing its revenue target and setting ambitious goals for the new year.
The command, serving as a critical trade hub in Lagos, generated an impressive fifty-three billion, four hundred and twenty-nine million, six hundred and fifteen thousand, six hundred and fifteen Naira (=N=53,429,615,615) in 2023. This marks a commendable 19% increase compared to the revenue realized for the same period in 2022. Despite operating below full capacity, KLTC is determined to reach its 2024 target of 87.5 billion.
KLTC’s success story extends to the export sector, where it evolved from a transit hub to a bustling processing center with the introduction of its Export Processing Terminal (EPT). This innovation facilitated the export of 399 containers of agro products and solid minerals in 2023, showcasing a substantial shift in operational dynamics.
The command attributes its achievements to several key activities, including the processing and clearance of import and export shipments, risk assessment analysis for trade regulation compliance, engagement with critical stakeholders to facilitate legitimate trade, collaboration with other government and security agencies for enhanced security, proper physical examination of containers, and initiatives to boost staff morale through improved workspace environments and sanitation.
In addition to these accomplishments, KLTC made a significant seizure of a 1 x 40ft container containing expired drugs and supplements, with a duty paid value of seven million, eight hundred and forty-three thousand, nine hundred and fifty-seven Naira.
Comptroller Tilley-Gyado acknowledged the operational challenges faced in 2023 but emphasizes the crucial support and guidance received from the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, and the Service’s Management team. She expresses gratitude to all stakeholders for their contributions to making 2023 a remarkable year and looks forward to an even better 2024.