The New Experience Newspapers Online News Indepth, Analysis and More
APAPA CUSTOMS EYES STRONGER TRADE OUTPUT AS 2025 REVENUE CLIMBS TO N2.93TN ON B’ODOGWU PLATFORM
By Prince Benson Davies
The Nigeria Customs Service, Apapa Area Command has directed its officers to deepen operational discipline, sustain revenue momentum, and accelerate trade facilitation as the Command charts its course for improved efficiency at Nigeria’s busiest seaport through the rest of 2026.
The charge was given during an internal performance appraisal where the Command reviewed its 2025 results and outlined strategies to consolidate gains in revenue, compliance, and cargo turnaround time.
Speaking at the review, Customs Area Controller, Emmanuel Oshoba, said the Command’s 2025 performance was powered by focused leadership, personnel discipline, and wider deployment of technology across cargo and documentation processes. He charged officers to build on the results and maintain the upward trajectory in revenue collection.
Oshoba disclosed that the Command collected N2.93 trillion in 2025, marking a 24.32 percent rise from the N2.36 trillion recorded in 2024. He linked the growth to the rollout of the Unified Customs Management System, known as B’Odogwu, which he said has enhanced transparency, accountability, and speed in cargo clearance.
The Command also pointed to key trade facilitation measures driving compliance and efficiency. These include the ongoing implementation of the Authorised Economic Operator Programme and the expansion of the One-Stop Shop initiative, both designed to fast-track processing for compliant traders and reduce human interface in the cargo chain.
To further boost inspection capacity, Oshoba announced that the Command is preparing to deploy the FS6000 cargo scanning system. The high-throughput scanner is expected to process up to 200 containers per hour, cutting physical examination time and supporting faster cargo exit from the port.
On anti-smuggling, the Command reported the interception of 53 containers carrying illicit drugs and prohibited items, including cocaine, tramadol, and expired pharmaceuticals. The consignments, with a Duty Paid Value of N12.6 billion, have been transferred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control for investigation and prosecution.
Oshoba restated the Command’s commitment to striking a balance between revenue generation, trade facilitation, and enforcement. He added that stronger collaboration with terminal operators, freight forwarders, shipping lines, and other regulatory agencies remains central to achieving seamless port operations and supporting the Federal Government’s economic agenda at Apapa Port.