The Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun 2 Area Command, achieved a significant revenue milestone in the first quarter of 2025, collecting a total of N15.1 billion. This represents a substantial 40% increase compared to the N9.1 billion collected during the same period in 2024. This impressive feat underscores the dedication and effectiveness of the command’s officers and men, who diligently pursued and surpassed revenue targets, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic advancement. The achievement also highlights the positive impact of strategic initiatives implemented by the Customs Area Controller, Bisi Alade, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and fostering stakeholder collaboration.
The substantial revenue increase can be attributed to a multi-pronged approach adopted by the Ogun 2 Area Command. This approach encompassed several key elements, including bolstering the operations of the command’s monitoring unit, enhancing intelligence gathering capabilities, strengthening engagement with stakeholders, and actively pursuing corporate social responsibility initiatives. These strategic actions, aligned with the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi’s principles of consolidation, collaboration, and innovation, have demonstrably yielded positive results, reflected in the substantial revenue growth. The focus on improved compliance from the trading community, partners at Free Trade Zones, and bonded terminals within the command’s jurisdiction further solidified the revenue generation efforts.
Beyond revenue generation, the Ogun 2 Area Command also focused on enforcing compliance and curbing illegal operations. During the first quarter of 2025, the command successfully uncovered and brought under excise control an unauthorized factory operating illicitly. This proactive approach to identifying and addressing illegal activities demonstrates the command’s commitment to maintaining order and ensuring adherence to established regulations within its area of responsibility. The combined focus on revenue generation and enforcement underscores the command’s comprehensive approach to fulfilling its mandate.
Central to the success achieved by the Ogun 2 Area Command is the emphasis on collaboration and communication. The command has prioritized dialogue and education with stakeholders and the local business community. This open communication fosters understanding and cooperation, promoting a smoother and more effective implementation of government fiscal policies. The command recognizes the importance of building strong relationships with its partners and the trading community, viewing this as crucial to ensuring compliance and achieving its objectives.
Looking ahead, the Ogun 2 Area Command is determined to build on the successes of the first quarter and continue its upward trajectory. The command aims to surpass its current performance in the coming months, leveraging the improved compliance from the trading community, Free Trade Zone partners, and bonded terminals. This sustained focus on continuous improvement is a testament to the command’s dedication to maximizing revenue collection and contributing to national economic growth. The command’s proactive stance and commitment to improvement position it for continued success in the future.
The Ogun 2 Area Command’s performance in the first quarter of 2025 serves as a powerful example of the positive impact of strategic leadership, focused initiatives, and a commitment to collaboration. The remarkable revenue increase, coupled with the successful identification and control of illegal operations, highlights the effectiveness of the command’s comprehensive approach. The command’s dedication to dialogue, education, and stakeholder engagement further strengthens its ability to achieve its objectives and contribute to the nation’s economic well-being. By maintaining this momentum and continuing to prioritize these key elements, the Ogun 2 Area Command is well-positioned to achieve even greater success in the future.
