The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, has recorded its highest monthly revenue collection ever, generating N323 billion in July 2026.
The record figure was disclosed by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Sulaiman Isah, following a monthly meeting between the Customs Area Controller, Emmanuel Oshoba, Deputy Comptrollers and heads of various units.
The July performance surpassed the command’s previous record of N304 billion, which was achieved in October 2025. Customs officials described the latest result as evidence that ongoing reforms and improved compliance are beginning to produce stronger financial results.
Oshoba attributed the increase to a combination of government policy support, operational improvements, stronger enforcement and better compliance by importers and other stakeholders.
He praised the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and the management of the service for their efforts to modernise customs operations and introduce technology-driven reforms.
One of the major developments highlighted was the improved performance of the B’Odogwu digital customs platform. Although the system experienced difficulties during its early stages, Oshoba said improvements have helped it become more effective in supporting customs operations.
The command also credited the One-Stop Shop initiative with helping to speed up cargo clearance. Faster processing, according to the Customs Area Controller, has made the trading environment more predictable and encouraged legitimate businesses to comply with import regulations.
Another factor highlighted was the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, which now has more than 200 beneficiaries. The initiative gives compliant businesses a more structured and efficient customs process and has contributed positively to revenue collection.
Oshoba also pointed to intelligence-led enforcement as an important part of the command’s performance. Customs officers have intensified efforts to identify false declarations and other violations while ensuring that goods are properly valued in line with approved regulations.
The Area Controller also linked the improved trading environment partly to greater stability in the foreign exchange market. He said more predictable foreign exchange conditions allow importers and other businesses to plan their transactions with greater confidence.
However, Oshoba warned officers not to focus solely on collecting revenue. He challenged each unit to identify how it could contribute through better enforcement, improved service delivery and stronger compliance.
He further instructed officers to resolve cargo-related disputes quickly, maintain proper documentation and follow established Post Clearance Audit procedures.
On relationships with businesses, Oshoba urged customs personnel to treat stakeholders professionally and respectfully. He said officers should create an environment where legitimate traders leave their offices with confidence rather than frustration.
He also called for greater transparency, discipline, teamwork, continuous training and stronger knowledge of digital customs procedures.
As the year progresses, Oshoba urged officers and compliant stakeholders to view the N323 billion achievement as a starting point rather than the final target.
He said the command must maintain the momentum, improve trade facilitation and pursue even stronger results before the end of 2026.
