The Customs Area Controller of the Tin-Can Island Port Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, has engaged a diverse group of stakeholders, including importers, Customs brokers, and shipping agents, to discuss the implementation of the 4% Free on Board (FOB) levy and the upcoming Unified Customs Management System, B’Odogwu.
The sensitization sessions, held on February 6 and 7, 2025, at the Command, provided an open platform for stakeholders from both the private and public sectors to deliberate on the operational impacts of the new initiatives. Comptroller Onyeka emphasized that these reforms aim to streamline Customs processes, enhance transparency, and improve efficiency in line with international best practices.
Addressing the 4% FOB levy, which is provided for under Section 18 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, Comptroller Onyeka explained that it applies to the value of goods at the point of import and is designed to boost the operational efficiency of the service. He also highlighted the B’Odogwu Clearance System as a groundbreaking modernization effort to reduce bottlenecks, enhance compliance, and facilitate seamless Customs clearance.
In addition to discussing these initiatives, Comptroller Onyeka announced that the Command generated a total of N116,412,735,766.23 in January 2025. This represents a significant 24.06% increase compared to the N88,430,126,122.76 recorded in January 2024, translating to a year-over-year revenue growth of N27,982,609,643.47. He expressed optimism that the Command is on course to exceed its annual revenue target of N1,524,699,999,478.52 for 2025.
On operational reforms, Comptroller Onyeka highlighted ongoing efforts to create a trade-friendly environment at the port. He assured stakeholders that the era of multiple alerts is over, urging importers to prioritize honest declarations and thorough cargo examinations.
He also reiterated his commitment to stakeholder engagement, stating, “Continuous collaboration and feedback are essential to the success of these initiatives. By addressing concerns and fostering understanding, we aim to ensure the smooth implementation of these policies.”
The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, commended the engagement sessions as part of the Service’s commitment to transparency, effective communication, and partnerships with stakeholders in the evolving landscape of international trade.
The introduction of these policies, combined with the Command’s robust revenue performance, underscores the determination of the Tincan Island Port Command to remain a vital contributor to Nigeria’s economic development.