By Tunde Ojudun
In a vibrant celebration of excellence and achievement, the Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) hosted a grand end-of-year party on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Apapa Country Club in Lagos. The event was held in line with the work-life balance initiative introduced by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, in 2024.
The celebration brought together officers and personnel of the command, maritime stakeholders, and dignitaries, including the Assistant Comptroller General of Customs and Zonal Coordinator for Zone A, ACG Mohammed Babandede, who represented the Comptroller-General.
In his opening address, ACG Babandede commended the unwavering support of stakeholders, sister agencies, and traditional rulers in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving national security and economic growth.
Highlighting the command’s performance, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller of Apapa Command, announced a record revenue generation of ₦2.636 trillion between January and November 2025. This figure marks a 19.9% increase compared to the ₦2.2 trillion collected during the same period in 2024.
Comptroller Oshoba attributed this remarkable growth to a series of strategic reforms aligned with the CGC’s modernization agenda.
According to the high performing controller, key initiatives driving growth include
enhanced compliance and automation, effective monitoring and risk management, implementation of the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) program, launch of the One Stop Shop (OSS), as well as deployment of the United Customs Management System (B’ODOGWU).
These reforms have significantly improved transparency, predictability, and the ease of doing business at Nigeria’s busiest port.
In addition to revenue achievements, the command recorded several high-profile seizures, including illicit drugs, arms and ammunition, and expired goods, reinforcing its commitment to national security and public safety.
The event concluded with the recognition of outstanding officers and maritime stakeholders for their professionalism, patriotism, and dedication to duty, underscoring the command’s appreciation for excellence and service.