EXCLUSIVE: LILYPOND EXPORT COMMAND RECORDS SIGNIFICANT GAINS, AS EXPORT VOLUME, PROCESSES GET BOOST UNDER COMPTROLLER ODUSANYA

EXCLUSIVE L:

LILYPOND EXPORT COMMAND RECORDS SIGNIFICANT GAINS, AS EXPORT VOLUME, PROCESSES GET BOOST UNDER COMPTROLLER ODUSANYA

By Frank Odinukaeze

The Comptroller in charge of the Lilypond Export Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller Ajibola Odusanya, has disclosed that the command has recorded significant progress in streamlining export processes and increasing trade facilitation since becoming the sole export processing center for Nigeria’s western corridor.

In an exclusive interview with Premium News Daily,

, Comptroller Odusanya explained that the transition, which took effect around July 2023, has made the Lilypond Command the central hub for export documentation and cargo processing, effectively replacing similar operations at TINCAN, PTML, Apapa, and Lekki ports.

“Before now, exporters could process their goods at various commands, but since the command was repositioned as a one-stop export processing hub, all export documentation and examination are done here,” he said. “Containers only move to the ports of exit depending on the shipping line, with our officers stationed at each entry point for final clearance.”

Improved Trade Facilitation and Export Volume

Although the command is not a major revenue-generating unit due to the non-taxable nature of most export items, Comptroller Odusanya revealed that performance is measured by the value and volume of trade facilitated. For example, the total shipment value of exports processed at the command in May 2025 alone stood at ₦180.9 billion, with manufactured goods accounting for $42 million of that figure—marking a significant shift from traditional raw exports.

Comptroller Ajibola Odusanya,Area Controller Lilypond Customs Command 

“This is a remarkable improvement compared to what we used to have. Exporters are now embracing value addition,” he said.

He also attributed the spike in exports to recent economic policies and currency devaluation, which have made Nigerian products more attractive to international buyers. “Our rebased currency has made Nigerian exports cheaper and more competitive globally, thus boosting demand,” he added.

Automation and Seamless Collaboration with Agencies

The Lilypond Command has benefited immensely from the introduction of a new home-grown digital platform known as B -ODUGWU, developed and deployed by the Nigeria Customs Service to replace the earlier NICIS system. The new platform reportedly offers better reliability, user-friendly features, and reduced downtime.

Odusanya emphasized that automation has played a key role in reducing delays and enhancing efficiency. “We’ve trained our officers and sensitized stakeholders on the new platform. It’s faster, simpler, and we’re already transitioning fully into it.”

Inter-agency cooperation has also improved dramatically, with officers from NDLEA, DSS, Quarantine, and other regulatory bodies now fully domiciled at the command. This has eliminated duplication of duties and reduced delays in clearance.

Stakeholder Engagement and Transparency

To ensure smooth operations and responsiveness, the command holds quarterly stakeholder meetings involving exporters, agents, terminal operators, and government agencies. Additionally, Comptroller Odusanya maintains an open-door policy and digital platforms for swift communication.

“We are here because of the exporters. If they face any issue, we have structures in place to address it immediately,” he stated.

Infrastructure and Expansion Needs

Despite the commendable progress, Odusanya admitted that the command is in dire need of expanded infrastructure to meet rising demand. “We currently operate from facilities provided by Diamond Star EPT. With increasing officer strength and export volumes, we will require larger accommodations to sustain growth,” he said.

To meet growing demands, Customs officers are now also stationed at various Export Processing Terminals (EPTs) across Lagos, including in Ikorodu, Okoko, and Kirikiri, among others, to handle examinations and facilitate quicker clearances.

Future Outlook: From Oil to Non-Oil Export Leadership

Looking ahead, the comptroller expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future in global trade. “With current growth trends, we foresee a time when non-oil exports will rival, or even surpass, oil in importance. Our manufactured goods exports are rising, and Nigerians are becoming more aware and involved in export trade.”

He cited recent figures from the National Bureau of Statistics and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), showing that Nigeria now enjoys a favorable balance of trade—exporting more than it imports—which bodes well for the economy and the Naira.

Message to Exporters

Odusanya urged exporters to remain committed and seek up-to-date information from the command. “We want to ensure that no Nigerian goods are rejected abroad again due to misinformation or non-compliance. Our doors are always open to guide them.”

He concluded by appreciating the dedication of his officers and stakeholders, noting that the peaceful and collaborative environment at Lilypond Command has been instrumental in its success.