In a heartening display of what effective reform and collaboration can achieve, the Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has reached a spectacular milestone, generating ₦2.93 trillion in revenue throughout 2025. This represents a remarkable 24.32 percent increase from the ₦2.357 trillion collected in 2024, cementing the command's position as a powerhouse of national revenue generation.

The success story, announced by Customs Area Controller Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba through spokesperson Chief Superintendent Isah Sulaiman, reflects a beautiful synergy of modern technology, dedicated personnel, and cooperative trade practices. Under the visionary guidance of Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi, the command has demonstrated that innovation and integrity can drive exceptional results.

At the heart of this achievement lies the deployment of the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), affectionately known as B'Odogwu. This cutting-edge platform has revolutionized cargo clearance processes, bringing unprecedented transparency, efficiency, and accountability to operations at Nigeria's busiest port. The system represents a leap forward in how customs operations can serve both national interests and legitimate business needs.

Comptroller Oshoba warmly acknowledged the crucial role played by compliant stakeholders whose commitment to lawful trade practices has been instrumental in this success. Through regular performance reviews and timely revenue recovery measures, the command has created an environment where doing business the right way is also the most efficient way.

The command's dedication to trade facilitation shines through its comprehensive stakeholder engagement initiatives. The rollout of the Authorised Economic Operator Programme and the expansion of the One-Stop Shop initiative have dramatically accelerated processing times for compliant businesses. Looking ahead, the deployment of the advanced FS6000 cargo scanning system—capable of scanning up to 200 containers per hour—promises even greater efficiency gains.

While celebrating revenue achievements, the command has also demonstrated its commitment to protecting public health and safety. In 2025, officers intercepted 53 containers carrying prohibited items including illicit drugs and expired pharmaceuticals, with a total value of ₦12.6 billion. These seizures, conducted in partnership with agencies like NDLEA and NAFDAC, underscore the command's dual mission of facilitating legitimate trade while safeguarding citizens.

Looking toward 2026 with optimism and determination, Comptroller Oshoba envisions even greater milestones ahead. Plans include deeper implementation of successful digital systems, enhanced intelligence-led operations, and expanded collaboration with partner agencies. The command remains committed to continuous engagement with terminal operators, shipping companies, licensed customs agents, freight forwarders, and the media to ensure transparency and seamless operations.

This remarkable achievement tells a inspiring story of institutional transformation—proof that when government agencies embrace innovation, value their workforce, and partner effectively with stakeholders, extraordinary results follow. The Apapa Customs Command stands as a shining example of public service excellence, demonstrating that Nigeria's economic infrastructure can compete with the best in the world while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and efficiency.