The Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has generated a revenue of N1.57 trillion, exceeding the yearly target of N1.52 trillion, driven largely by an increase in the importation of used vehicles, bulk cargo and general merchandise through the port.

The Customs Area Controller of the Command, Frank Onyeka, disclosed this during a press briefing yesterday at the command.

He said the amount exceeded the yearly target by 3.4 per cent or N51.8 billion.

He said the importation of bulk cargo, general merchandise and used vehicles remained the major drivers of the Command’s revenue profile.

Onyeka also highlighted diligent cargo examination and strict adherence to Customs procedures as important in ensuring full collection of all duties and levies due to the Federal Government.

According to him, the revenue feat is a product of deliberate reforms, improved processes, strong internal coordination and collective responsibility.

Onyeka noted that one of the Command’s key priorities for the year was eliminating revenue leakages and operational inefficiencies. He added that unnecessary and multiple alerts, which had previously slowed down clearance processes and created room for abuse, were streamlined to strengthen internal coordination and enhance efficiency.

Beyond revenue collection, the Controller stated that the Command intensified its enforcement mandate through intelligence-driven operations and vigilant monitoring, which resulted in several significant seizures of prohibited, improperly declared and contraband goods imported in violation of existing national laws and regulations.

He stressed that while the Command encouraged legitimate trade, it would not compromise national security, public safety or economic integrity.

“Let me state unequivocally that the attainment of our annual revenue target does not in any way signify a relaxation of operational standards or enforcement activities. The Command will not ease its vigilance, even for the remaining part of the year. All officers and men of the Command remain fully mobilised and operationally focused to sustain revenue generation, intensify compliance enforcement, and ensure that every legitimate collection due to the Federal Government is assessed, collected and accounted for,” he stated.

Onyeka highlighted the Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr Bashir Adeniyi, drive for professionalism, automation and stakeholder engagement as the foundation for the Command’s achievements.

He also commended port stakeholders, including importers, licensed customs agents, terminal operators and shipping companies, for their cooperation and improved compliance with Customs regulations.