The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has achieved a historic milestone, surpassing its 2024 revenue target by 10 percent with a collection of N5.07 trillion, while still over a month remains in the fiscal year. This achievement underscores NCS’s dedication to trade facilitation and economic growth.

Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, shared this accomplishment during the 2024 Comptroller-General of Customs Conference held in Abuja. The event, themed “Nigeria Customs Service: Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose,” brought together key stakeholders to discuss strengthening customs operations through collaboration.

CGC Adeniyi attributed this revenue success to improved stakeholder cooperation and the adoption of modernized customs systems that enhance efficiency and transparency. He emphasized that this milestone aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic transformation agenda, reflecting NCS’s commitment to a streamlined customs system.

Adeniyi highlighted recent reforms initiated under the NCS’s Continental Declaration of 2023, which prioritizes digital transformation in customs processes. These advancements include a 24-hour cargo clearance system at major ports, a one-stop cargo alert system, and simplified examination protocols. Additionally, the NCS has launched the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) scheme, initially involving select participants demonstrating compliance with customs regulations.

In line with Nigeria’s role in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), CGC Adeniyi announced the successful facilitation of Nigeria’s first shipment under AfCFTA. This achievement, coupled with Nigeria’s improved standing on the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) index, where NCS climbed 33 places, reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to trade facilitation.

The NCS has also enhanced enforcement measures, with CGC Adeniyi noting the interception of illicit goods valued at NGN 28.1 billion in 2024. Through initiatives like “Operation Whirlwind” in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), NCS has targeted smuggling, particularly of petroleum products, to safeguard Nigeria’s resources.

With these accomplishments, CGC Adeniyi reaffirmed NCS’s dedication to trade facilitation, enforcement, and international collaboration, positioning Nigeria for a stronger economic future.