The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, on Thursday confirmed a report published by SHIPS & PORTS that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) generates more than 80% of its revenue from the southwest especially Lagos.
The SHIPS & PORTS report published on 1st November 2021 showed that four southwest states account for 80.48% of NCS’ annual revenue. Lagos alone, according to the report, accounts for 75.975% while Ogun, Ondo and Oyo contribute 1.249%, 0.004% and 3.142%.
The report also showed that the NCS generates its least revenue from the north-east geopolitical zone, consisting of Adaawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Tarama and Yobe states. Collectively, the zone accounts for a paltry 0.033% of the revenue of Nigeria Customs Service. The Customs Area Commands in the region are Adamawa, which collects 0.011% of the NCS annual revenue, Bauchi/Gombe (0%), Borno/Yobe (0.011%) and FOU Zone D (0.011%).
The north-central zone also generates a dismal 1.014% in Customs revenue; north-west 1.788% and south-east 1.83%.
The north-central region consists of Benue/Nasarawa/Plateau Area Command (0%), FCT Abuja Command (0.612%), Kwara Command (0.402%) and Niger/Kogi (0%).
The north-west zone consists of Kano/Jigawa Area Command (1.02%), Kaduna Area Command (0.562%), Katsina Area Command (0.01%), Kebbi/Zamfara Area Command (0.031%), Sokoto Area Command (0.073%) and FOU Zone B, Kaduna (0.092%).
The south-east zone consists of Abia/Imo Area Command (0.709%), Enugu/Anambra/Ebonyi Area Command (1.118 %) and FOU Zone C, Owerri (0.003%).
Confirming the SHIPS & PORTS report at the 2023 Customs Comptroller General Conference on Thursday, Adeniyi stated that 70 per cent of the service’s revenue comes from Lagos State.
According to him, the NCS and Lagos State Government are planning new collaboration to enhance the economic growth and prosperity of the entire country.
“Lagos houses 40 per cent of our commands, contributing over 70 per cent of our monthly revenue. It is not just a location on the map; it is a cornerstone for Nigeria Customs Service, symbolising the integral role in the economic narrative of our great nation.
“And as we navigate through the agenda of today, we will hope that the synergy of Lagos and Customs inspire us to enhance operations and contribute significantly to the economic prosperity of Nigeria,” Adeniyi said.
The CGC said the service had adapted to the ever-evolving landscape of global trade, beyond its traditional role of safeguarding borders.
“Customs has evolved into a vital catalyst for economic growth and development in this era, characterised by relentless change. Customs has emerged as a paragon of resilience and adaptability, eagerly embracing technology and global best practices to remain at the forefront of its mission and standing at a crossroads of innovation, and tradition,” he said.
Also speaking, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the state would continue to ensure that “it has all the capability and capacity to be resilient, resourceful, and be the beacon that holds the nation together.”
“We are indeed excited with what Lagos and NCS have built. We want to make this place a bigger home for you. We want to make it a nicer environment for you,” he said.
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