House of Reps Committee Applauds Apapa Customs Command Over Record Revenue, Trade Facilitation
The House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise has commended the Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for its impressive revenue performance and commitment to trade facilitation, while pledging legislative support to address lingering operational challenges.
Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Leke Abejide, led the team on an oversight visit to the command as part of the National Assembly’s ongoing review of agencies under its jurisdiction.
During the visit, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, revealed that the command generated a remarkable ₦753.8 billion in the first quarter of 2025—a ₦205 billion increase from the ₦489 billion recorded in the same period in 2024.
“This feat has earned the Command three prestigious awards at the Comptroller-General’s award night—Best in Trade Facilitation, Revenue Generation, and Overall Best Command in the Nigeria Customs Service,” Olomu stated.
He also highlighted key enforcement achievements, including the seizure of over 100,000 bottles of expired codeine-based cough syrup and other unregistered pharmaceuticals. “In 2024 alone, the Command intercepted over 36 shipments of illicit drugs including tramadol and other controlled substances,” he added.
However, Comptroller Olomu noted pressing concerns affecting the Command’s efficiency, such as inadequate scanning equipment and a poorly functioning electronic truck call-up system. He urged the lawmakers to intervene in improving inter-agency collaboration at the port.
Responding, Hon. Abejide lauded the Apapa Command’s leadership in revenue collection and trade facilitation. “Your command continues to set the benchmark for excellence. I was there when you were recognized nationally. We have taken note of your challenges and will act where necessary to ensure smoother operations,” he said.
The lawmaker underscored the relevance of the ongoing e-Customs modernisation initiative, particularly the use of artificial intelligence and non-intrusive inspection tools. “The deployment of scanners and AI technologies is critical to detecting smuggling and enhancing efficiency,” he explained.
He also criticized terminal operators, identifying them as a major impediment to smooth customs operations. “Their inefficiencies disrupt not only Customs processes but also impact businesses and the wider economy. We will be setting up a technical committee to investigate their operations,” Abejide revealed.
He urged all port users to embrace ongoing reforms and familiarize themselves with the new Customs Act, emphasizing that improved compliance would enhance service delivery and trade outcomes.
