TinCan Island Customs Rakes In N747 Billion In First Half Of 2025, Records Major Anti-Smuggling Feats

TinCan Island Customs Rakes In N747 Billion In First Half Of 2025, Records Major Anti-Smuggling Feats
…Comptroller describes CGC Adeniyi’s WCO Chairmanship as “Divine Victory”

CAC TinCan Port command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka 

By Frank Odinukaeze

The Tincan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced an impressive revenue collection of N747.07 billion for the first half of 2025, marking a 29.85% increase over the N575.36 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2024.

The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Frank Onyeka, disclosed this in a press briefing made available to newsmen in Lagos. He noted that the command’s performance represents 98.03% of its half-year revenue target, attributing the feat to strategic reforms and increased operational efficiency.

“From January to June 2025, Tincan Island Port recorded sustained growth in monthly revenue collections, with peaks in April (N145.02 billion) and March (N128.27 billion), both exceeding the monthly revenue benchmark of N127.05 billion,” Onyeka revealed.

He further highlighted that a total of 3,450 Single Goods Declarations (SGDs) were received under the new Bodogwu clearance system, with 2,749 successfully processed and exited. Several training sessions have been held to familiarize stakeholders with the new system.

In vessel traffic, the Command processed 282 ships in the first quarter alone, with imports ranging from bulk wheat and sugar to industrial chemicals and drilling rods.

On anti smuggling,the command also recorded major successes in the anti-smuggling drive, seizing illicit drugs and arms in coordinated operations.

Comptroller Onyeka confirmed that two 20-foot containers were intercepted, containing Cannabis Indica and Crystal Methamphetamine with a combined street value of over N8.05 billion. The consignments were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

In a separate operation, Customs officers uncovered arms and military-grade equipment concealed in a 40-foot container transporting used vehicles. Items recovered included two pistols (Ruger P345 and GEN 4 Austria), 134 rounds of live and blank 9mm ammunition, five empty magazines, two handcuffs, and a small iron flashlight.

The items, along with the consignee and declarant, were handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation. Comptroller Onyeka emphasized that these seizures underscore the command’s commitment to national security and its zero-tolerance stance on smuggling.
Highlighting the importance of collaboration, the CAC noted that the command has deepened engagements with key maritime stakeholders including terminal operators, industry captains, civil society groups, and other government agencies.

“These stakeholder sessions ensure transparency, build trust, and foster operational synergy in our collective mission to enhance trade facilitation,” he said.

On transparency and public accountability, Comptroller Onyeka stated that regular press briefings and open forums have been held to keep Nigerians informed of ongoing developments at the port.

Comptroller Onyeka extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on his election as Chairman of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council, describing the victory as “divinely inspired.”

He praised CGC Adeniyi’s unwavering support to the Tincan Island Command and pledged continued commitment to a business-friendly port environment.

The Controller also encouraged his officers and men to remain committed, resilient, and professional, noting that the command’s success is a reflection of their dedication and teamwork.
The press statement was signed by Oscar Ivara,Public Relations Officer TinCan port command