By Adedapo Adesanya
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone Command in Rivers State says it has achieved a record-breaking revenue collection of N53.98 billion between January and November 2024, exceeding its annual target by 2.3 per cent and nearly doubling the N26.80 billion generated in 2023.
This was disclosed by the Customs Area Controller, Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone, Onne, Comptroller Seriki Usman, during a press briefing at the command’s headquarters, where he attributed the success to strategic collaboration with stakeholders, operational efficiency, and a focus on regulatory compliance.
He said, “A notable achievement of the command was its record-breaking revenue collection of N53.98 billion. This figure represents a 2.3 per cent increase over our annual target for 2024 and a remarkable 98.6% rise compared to the N26.80 billion collected in 2023.
“Our record-breaking revenue underscores the importance of effective trade facilitation and regulatory compliance. This achievement reflects the commitment of our officers, the collaboration with stakeholders, and the critical role of the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone in driving Nigeria’s economic growth,” he said.
He explained that the Command successfully facilitated the export of key products such as refined sugar, fertiliser, liquefied natural gas, LNG, and crude oil from major facilities, including Bundu Sugar Refinery, Notore Chemical PLC, and Bonny Island.
“The seamless management of imports and exports within the free trade zone has enhanced operations for licensed enterprises,” he noted.
Speaking on the significance of these achievements, Comptroller Usman emphasized the need to maintain the momentum.
“This accomplishment is not just about numbers but about fostering trade growth, innovation, and creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive within the free trade zone.”
On regulatory compliance, Comptroller Usman reassured Nigerians of the Command’s commitment to ensuring adherence to international trade regulations while fostering economic progress.
“Our focus remains on enhancing service delivery, promoting ease of doing business, and driving revenue generation that supports the nation’s development goals,” he said.
The command emphasized that collaboration with stakeholders, particularly the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone Authority, has been pivotal in achieving these milestones, and called for continued partnership to sustain trade growth and improve service delivery.
As the year comes to a close, the command has reiterated its resolve to solidify its role as a critical revenue driver and trade facilitator in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Mr Usman said the performance reflects the command’s vital role in strengthening Nigeria’s non-oil revenue base and its determination to remain a key player in the country’s economic transformation efforts.
“We remain committed to sustaining our achievements, fostering trust among stakeholders, and contributing significantly to the nation’s economic growth,” Comptroller Usman concluded.