Lagos Free Zone Customs generates ₦253.3bn in four months, 73.5bn increase, 40.8% growth

…As ACG Babandede Visits

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

The Lagos Free Trade Zone Command of the Nigeria Customs Service generated ₦253.39 billion in revenue between January and April 2026, representing a 40.87 per cent increase compared to the corresponding period in 2025.

Customs Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Hauwa Abubakar, disclosed this during the official working visit of the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs and Zonal Coordinator, Zone ‘A’, ACG Mohammed Babandede, to the command on May 13, 2026.

According to Abubakar, the command generated a total of ₦253,385,539,061.88 within the first four months of 2026, compared to ₦179.8 billion recorded during the same period in 2025.

She said the performance translated to a revenue increase of approximately ₦73.5 billion.

“I am pleased to respectfully inform the ACG that the command has continued to record remarkable operational achievements,” Abubakar stated.

She attributed the growth to improved operational efficiency, stricter regulatory compliance, and sustained trade facilitation initiatives implemented in line with the fiscal policies of the Federal Government and the strategic direction of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

Beyond revenue performance, the Controller noted that the command had continued to strengthen trade facilitation while ensuring compliance with regulations governing operations within the Free Trade Zone.

She explained that the command remains focused on balancing efficient cargo movement with strict customs oversight to support investments and industrial activities within the zone.

Abubakar also highlighted measures introduced to improve officers’ welfare, including accommodation support, transportation arrangements, and the ongoing renovation of command facilities to create a more conducive working environment.

According to her, the command has maintained strong collaboration with sister government agencies, Free Zone managements, terminal operators, and other stakeholders.

She said the partnership has enhanced operational efficiency, intelligence sharing, stakeholder compliance, and overall coordination within the zone.

The Controller commended the support received from Customs Headquarters and Zone ‘A’ Headquarters, noting that the command’s achievements were driven by strategic leadership, effective supervision, and teamwork.

She reaffirmed the commitment of officers and men of the command to discipline, professionalism, integrity, and efficient service delivery.

The Lagos Free Trade Zone remains a critical hub for industrial development, manufacturing, and export-driven investments, making customs efficiency and regulatory compliance central to Nigeria’s broader trade competitiveness agenda.