The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has recorded a remarkable N323 billion revenue collection in July 2026, setting a new monthly record for the command and highlighting the impact of ongoing reforms within the service.
The latest figure represents the highest amount ever collected by the Apapa Area Command in a single month. It also surpassed the previous record of N304 billion generated in October 2025.
The development was disclosed by the Customs Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, during a meeting with deputy comptrollers overseeing terminals and various unit heads...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
Oshoba attributed the impressive revenue performance to a combination of government policy support, operational reforms, improved compliance by stakeholders and the increasing use of technology in customs processes.
He also commended the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and the management of the Nigeria Customs Service for their continued efforts to modernise the agency and improve the efficiency of its operations.
According to the command, one of the areas that has contributed to the improved performance is the enhanced B’Odogwu system. The digital platform, which previously encountered operational challenges, has reportedly been improved and is now contributing more effectively to customs operations.
The One Stop Shop initiative was also highlighted as another important factor behind the improved performance. The initiative is designed to make cargo processing and delivery more efficient while creating a more predictable environment for businesses involved in legitimate importation.
The command also pointed to the Authorised Economic Operator framework, which currently has more than 200 beneficiaries. The programme has helped improve compliance and contributed positively to the revenue profile of the Apapa command.
Beyond technology and administrative reforms, customs officials have intensified intelligence driven enforcement operations to identify false declarations and ensure that importers comply with approved valuation principles.
The measures are aimed not only at increasing revenue but also at protecting government income that could otherwise be lost through underdeclaration, inaccurate documentation and other forms of non compliance.
Oshoba also linked the improved operating environment to greater stability in the foreign exchange market. He explained that a more predictable foreign exchange environment allows businesses to plan their importation activities more effectively and make better informed decisions.
For businesses operating through Apapa Port, the command’s improved revenue performance comes alongside an emphasis on trade facilitation and ease of doing business. Customs authorities have urged officers to resolve disputes promptly, follow proper documentation procedures and ensure that consignments requiring additional checks are handled in accordance with established rules.
The customs leadership also stressed the importance of professionalism and better relations between officers and stakeholders. Officers were encouraged to treat importers and other port users with respect while maintaining transparency and discipline in the discharge of their responsibilities.
The N323 billion monthly collection is significant for the broader revenue mobilisation efforts of the Federal Government, particularly at a time when government agencies are under pressure to improve internally generated revenue and reduce leakages.
However, the record collection also places greater responsibility on the command to sustain the momentum without compromising trade facilitation or creating unnecessary difficulties for legitimate businesses.
Oshoba has consequently urged personnel to continue improving their knowledge of digital customs processes, strengthen supervision and maintain compliance with approved procedures.
The command has also been encouraged to build on the July performance as the year progresses, with the latest achievement being described as a stepping stone toward even stronger results.
With Apapa remaining one of Nigeria’s most important gateways for international trade, the record revenue collection is likely to attract further attention as the Customs Service continues its push for technology driven operations, stronger compliance and increased government revenue.
The N323 billion collected in July therefore represents more than a monthly revenue figure. It is also an indication of the scale of economic activity passing through one of Nigeria’s busiest trade corridors and the growing financial importance of efficient customs administration to the country’s economy.
