PORT HARCOURT CUSTOMS COMMAND ACHIEVES RECORD-BREAKING REVENUE
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Area 1 Command in Port Harcourt has made history by collecting over ₦200 billion in revenue in 2024. This impressive feat represents a significant increase of 72.41% compared to the ₦116 billion collected in 2023.
According to Comptroller Mustapha Hashim, Customs Area Controller, the command’s strategic focus on enforcement operations and ensuring compliance with customs regulations has driven revenue growth. Key factors contributing to this success include improved monitoring systems, increased patrols, and enhanced collaboration with other enforcement agencies. These efforts have been instrumental in curbing smuggling activities and boosting revenue.
The Nigeria Customs Service command’s 2024 revenue breakdown reveals significant growth, with ₦184 billion collected in the first quarter, averaging ₦15 billion monthly. This initial projection was later revised upward to ₦230 billion, with an expected monthly collection of ₦19 billion for the remaining quarters.
Notably, the command’s revenue increased substantially, but it still fell short of its annual target by 13.04%. The main reason for this shortfall was the Federal Government’s food import waiver policy, introduced in July 2024. This policy change significantly impacted the command’s revenue collection.
In the area of export activities, the command has made significant strides in boosting revenue from agricultural products, with a total quantity of 17 million metric tons exported in 2024. The command’s contribution to national revenue has also increased, with the total NESS paid in Naira standing at ₦2.9 billion for both oil and non-oil exports.
As the command looks to 2025, Comptroller Hashim has pledged to redouble efforts to achieve even greater revenue growth, anti-smuggling, and trade facilitation. With a focused approach, dedication, and continued support from partners and stakeholders, the command is confident of deploying all necessary tools to ensure seamless clearance operations.
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