By Correspondent in Lagos.
Pic. From fifth left, Customs Area Controller, Apapa Customs Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olumu and the National Executive of the Association of Nigeria Clearing Agents during customs visit to the association Headquarters in Lagos on Tuesday
From fifth left, Customs Area Controller, Apapa Customs Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olumu and the National Executive of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders during customs visit to the association Headquarters in Lagos on Tuesday.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, has announced a revenue generation of N1.378 trillion within the first six months of 2024, while seeking deeper collaboration with freight forwarders to further enhance trade facilitation and national revenue growth.
Comptroller Dr. Babatunde Olomu, Area Controller of the Apapa Command, disclosed this during a familiarisation visit to the offices of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) and the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) in Lagos on Tuesday.
Olomu credited the milestone to the unwavering cooperation of key stakeholders, particularly NAGAFF and ANLCA, noting that the command’s total revenue for 2024 is projected at N2.357 trillion.
He commended the associations for their role in promoting compliance and professionalism, saying their input has been crucial to achieving the Service’s mandate of revenue collection and trade efficiency.
“The collaboration with credible freight forwarder associations like yours is essential. This visit aligns with the directive of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to strengthen stakeholder engagement,” Olomu stated.
He also praised the CGC’s recent appointment as the head of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), describing it as a significant recognition for Nigeria’s customs administration on the global stage.
Olomu urged clearing agents and freight forwarders to uphold transparency, make honest declarations, and comply fully with import and export regulations, especially regarding accurate duty payments.
While commending ANLCA for its pioneering leadership in the maritime sector, Olomu lauded NAGAFF as a symbol of resilience and professionalism. He paid tribute to NAGAFF founder, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, for sustaining the association’s vision for over 25 years.
He emphasized the importance of customs officers in the national logistics ecosystem and called for continuous collaboration to boost Nigeria’s economy through seaports, airports, and excise facilities.
Olomu also highlighted the role of training and capacity building, applauding both associations for their involvement in customs training initiatives, which he said are vital to Nigeria’s drive for sustainable and locally adapted customs modernisation.
He encouraged members to prioritise health and adopt a balanced lifestyle for improved productivity.
“Routine medical check-ups help prevent avoidable health issues such as high blood pressure and stroke. Regular physical activity is also key. Our Apapa Customs medical facility is available at low cost as part of our Corporate Social Responsibility,” he said.
In response, NAGAFF President, Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, thanked Comptroller Olomu for the visit, describing it as an opportunity to deepen cooperation and strengthen customs reforms for cargo clearance.
“This engagement underscores our shared goal of fostering transparency, efficiency, and security in port operations. Sustained dialogue between regulators and stakeholders is essential to achieving a globally competitive maritime sector,” Ezisi said.
He pledged NAGAFF’s continued support for customs reforms aligned with global standards and national interest.
Also speaking, ANLCA Apapa Chapter Chairman, Chief Emeka Chukwumalu, commended Olomu’s leadership and his contributions to member welfare. He praised the introduction of the “call-up entrance wallet” for ANLCA members, which significantly reduced transportation costs from N1.2 billion to N350 million, improving profitability and operational efficiency.
He also thanked the command for providing logistical and facility support for training sessions aimed at advancing industry knowledge and capacity.
Chukwumalu called for continued collaboration in key areas to further enhance trade facilitation.
In his closing remarks, Olomu reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the issues raised and assured both associations of his unwavering support.
The event concluded with the NAGAFF President decorating Comptroller Olomu with the association’s insignia. Members of the Apapa Customs management team also received NAGAFF lapel pins in recognition of their service and support.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
