The Apapa Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has set a new revenue milestone, collecting ₦18.9 billion (over $12 million) in a single day on Friday, March 14, 2025—the highest daily collection in the command’s history.
This record surpasses the previous peak of ₦18.2 billion, achieved in October 2024, marking a significant achievement for the nation’s busiest port.
Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, fsi, Ph.D, the Area Controller of the Apapa Command, described the accomplishment as the beginning of greater milestones for 2025, attributing the success to the dedication of officers, a culture of compliance, and industrial harmony at the port. He also acknowledged the unwavering support from the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.
“Our record-breaking achievement of ₦18.9 billion daily collection is just the beginning of greater exploits this year,” Olomu said. “Our officers remain vigilant in detecting concealments, under-declaration, false declaration, and other tactics aimed at evading duties.”
Interventions to Maintain Port Operations
Under the CGC’s directives, Comptroller Olomu led high-level discussions with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to resolve persistent challenges related to the Eto call-up system, which had caused severe traffic gridlock along the Apapa Port corridor.
ALSO READ: NIGERIA, BRAZIL SIGN AGRICULTURE DEAL
In a separate intervention, Olomu also prevented the planned withdrawal of services by maritime workers and freight forwarders amid unresolved disputes with APM Terminals. His efforts averted a potential shutdown, ensuring uninterrupted port operations and facilitating the smooth flow of import and export activities.
“Ports are critical national assets with direct impacts on the economy and global trade. It is, therefore, imperative to keep them operational—especially Apapa Port, which handles the largest volume of cargo entering Nigeria,” Olomu emphasized.
Commitment to Stakeholder Collaboration and Anti-Smuggling Efforts
Olomu reaffirmed the command’s commitment to stakeholder engagement, a priority of CGC Adeniyi’s administration. By fostering collaboration between government agencies, terminal operators, and port users, the command has strengthened trade facilitation and enhanced public confidence.
“Our intervention has not only promoted uninterrupted trade but also strengthened the confidence of port users,” he stated.
Beyond revenue generation, Olomu stressed that the Apapa Command remains resolute in combating smuggling and enforcing customs regulations, ensuring compliance and protecting national interests.
