BY PHILIP NWOSU
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Enugu/Anambra/Ebonyi Command, has set an unprecedented record in revenue collection for 2024, amassing ₦50,847,625,597.08. This marks a significant 50% increase compared to the ₦27,954,707,493 collected in 2023, making it the highest revenue ever achieved since the command’s inception.
Speaking on the milestone, the Customs Area Controller for the area Comfort Ukpanah attributed the achievement to deliberate alignment with the Comptroller General of Customs’ (CGC) policy guidelines of Consultation, Innovation, and Consolidation. The command engaged stakeholders extensively, fostering trust and strict adherence to extant trade regulations.
The command implemented a robust compliance-monitoring framework for stakeholders and ensured operational gaps were identified and addressed. This approach was extended to excise factories and parcel post operations. Through intelligence sharing and collaboration, previously unregulated excise factories were brought under control, and 24-hour surveillance was enforced to ensure appropriate duties were collected.
Despite global economic challenges, the command demonstrated resilience and a commitment to blocking revenue leakages, ensuring that all collectible revenue was accounted for.
Recognizing its pivotal role in national revenue generation, the command reaffirmed its dedication to achieving the Nigeria Customs Service’s targets. With the 2025 federal budget projection of ₦49.74 trillion announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the command is already strategizing to surpass expected revenue goals.
“We have the competence and capacity to meet and exceed the targets set for the new year,” the Controller stated.
In 2024, the command prioritized collaborations with security agencies, regulatory bodies, and traditional institutions. Intelligence sharing proved instrumental in achieving its objectives. A notable highlight of the year was the visit of the National Chairperson of the Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), Mrs. Kikelomo Adewale Adeniyi. During her visit, she commissioned several projects, including an ultra-modern clinic serving both customs officers and neighboring communities.
The Controller expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and his management team for their unwavering support. He also commended the efforts of compliant traders and warned non-compliant operators to rethink their actions or face the full force of the law.
Special recognition was extended to media partners for their continued support in highlighting the achievements of the Customs Service. “You have been reliable allies in nation-building, and we salute your professionalism,” the Controller added.
The command is determined to build on its success in 2025. The Controller praised the dedication of the officers and men of the command, expressing confidence in their ability to surpass expectations in the new year.