The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Apapa Area Command has achieved a remarkable milestone, collecting a record-breaking revenue of N2.014 trillion as of November 19, 2024. This achievement underscores the command’s dedication to its financial goals despite the economic challenges facing Nigeria and the global market. It also emphasizes the resilience and efficiency of the nation’s customs system in managing international trade and contributing significantly to national revenue.
During a routine parade at the command headquarters in Apapa, Lagos, on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), announced the achievement with pride. The milestone, he noted, has been the product of a collective effort from officers, stakeholders, and the leadership at all levels. As the command sets its sights on reaching an even more ambitious N2.2 trillion revenue by the end of December, there is renewed optimism about the possibilities in Nigerian customs revenue generation.
How Apapa Customs Achieved the N2 Trillion Revenue Target
The Apapa Area Command’s success in generating over N2 trillion can be attributed to several key factors. One of the most significant contributors to this success has been the commitment of its officers and the proactive strategies implemented under the guidance of the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC).
The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, acknowledged the dedication and sacrifices of the command’s officers. According to Olomu, “To meet this revenue target, despite economic challenges, reflects the sacrifice and commitment of our officers, men, and stakeholders.” This statement highlights the collaborative efforts that have propelled the Apapa Area Command to achieve this revenue record.
Under Olomu’s leadership, the Apapa Area Command has taken deliberate actions to improve trade facilitation, enhance enforcement operations, and ensure the efficient collection of customs duties. These efforts have not only contributed to revenue generation but also bolstered national security by combating smuggling and other illicit activities.
The CGC’s emphasis on increasing revenue targets has also driven the command’s progress. Olomu mentioned that the CGC reiterated the possibility of increasing the target by 10% before the year’s end. With a current revenue of N130 billion already generated in November, the command is on track to meet its ambitious year-end target of N2.2 trillion.
The Impact of the Apapa Area Command on National Revenue
The significance of the Apapa Area Command’s revenue collection extends beyond the command itself. Comptroller Olomu revealed that the command’s revenue contribution represents 40% of the Nigeria Customs Service’s total collection of N5.07 trillion. This contribution underscores the pivotal role that the Apapa Area Command plays in the overall revenue generation of the Nigeria Customs Service.
The command’s ability to achieve such impressive results is indicative of the potential for other customs commands across Nigeria to enhance their revenue collection capabilities. By setting a benchmark of N2 trillion, the Apapa Area Command has established itself as a leader in customs operations, providing a blueprint for other commands to follow.
Strategies for Sustained Revenue Growth
The Apapa Area Command has adopted several strategies to sustain its revenue growth, including:
- Enhanced Enforcement Measures: The command has maintained stringent enforcement measures to ensure compliance with customs regulations. Comptroller Olomu emphasized the importance of making sure that all seizures are accompanied by arrests for prosecution to combat smuggling effectively. This approach has not only deterred illegal activities but also ensured that revenue is not lost through evasion.
- Trade Facilitation Initiatives: To facilitate trade, the command has implemented measures that streamline customs processes, reduce bottlenecks, and encourage compliance among importers and exporters. These initiatives have made it easier for businesses to operate within the legal framework, contributing to increased revenue collection.
- Stakeholder Engagement: The command’s success is also attributable to its engagement with stakeholders. By fostering a positive relationship with traders, shipping companies, and other stakeholders, the Apapa Area Command has been able to create an environment that encourages compliance and boosts revenue collection.
Looking Ahead: Targeting N2.2 Trillion by Year-End
With a month left until the end of 2024, the Apapa Area Command is focused on reaching its new target of N2.2 trillion. Comptroller Olomu expressed confidence in the command’s ability to achieve this target, thanks to the cooperation and support of the officers and stakeholders.
“The CGC has reiterated the possibility of increasing our target by 10 per cent before the year ends. We have already generated N130 billion, and with your cooperation and support, I am confident we can achieve the desired result,” Olomu said. His words serve as a call to action for all officers and stakeholders to maintain the momentum and work towards achieving the set target.
Recognizing Excellence: End-of-Year Gathering and Award Night
In recognition of the efforts of its officers and stakeholders, the Apapa Area Command has announced plans to host an end-of-year gathering and award night. Comptroller Olomu highlighted the importance of rewarding those who have contributed to the command’s success in 2024.
“We aim to reward our compliant partners, which will serve as a morale booster for others,” the CAC stated. By acknowledging the contributions of its officers and partners, the command hopes to foster a culture of excellence and encourage continued dedication to revenue generation and enforcement.
The event will also serve as an opportunity to celebrate the command’s achievements and set the tone for even greater accomplishments in the coming year. By recognizing the hard work and dedication of its personnel, the Apapa Area Command aims to motivate its officers to continue their efforts in facilitating trade, enforcing regulations, and generating revenue.
The Role of Leadership in Achieving Success
Comptroller Olomu attributed the success of the Apapa Area Command to the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs. Under the CGC’s guidance, the command has been able to implement effective strategies for revenue collection, trade facilitation, and enforcement.
The theme of the recently concluded 2024 CGC Conference, which focused on engaging traditional and new partners, has also played a role in shaping the command’s approach. By engaging both existing and new partners, the Apapa Area Command has been able to expand its reach and enhance its revenue collection capabilities.
Conclusion: A Milestone Worth Celebrating
The achievement of N2 trillion in revenue by the Nigeria Customs Service Apapa Area Command is a significant milestone that reflects the dedication, commitment, and hard work of its officers, men, and stakeholders. It is also a testament to the effective leadership provided by the CGC and the proactive measures taken by the command to enhance trade facilitation, enforcement, and revenue collection.
As the command sets its sights on reaching N2.2 trillion by the end of 2024, there is a sense of optimism about what can be achieved through collaboration, dedication, and strategic planning. The end-of-year gathering and award night will serve as a fitting celebration of the command’s accomplishments and a reminder of the importance of recognizing excellence.
The Apapa Area Command’s success is not just about the numbers; it is about the impact that effective customs operations can have on national revenue, trade facilitation, and economic growth. By setting a new benchmark for revenue collection, the command has paved the way for other customs commands across Nigeria to strive for excellence and contribute to the nation’s economic development.
