The Tincan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service,(NCS), Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka has stated that his officers are fully prepared for the transition to Customs paperless operations scheduled for the end of second quarter of 2026.
Addressing the press on the January performance of the command on Tuesday, 17 February, 2026, at the command headquarters , the trade enabler said the command collected a sum of N145. 9bn in revenue. He stated that the paperless transition will thrive when traders declare correctly just as B’Odogwu platform thrived despite its teething challenges.
The amount represented N29.5 billion above the N116.4 billion generated during the corresponding period of January, 2025.
According to the Onyeka, “Despite the teething problem with B’Odogwu we have recorded success, so we are ready for the paperless operation. There could be network issues but I want to urge the trading public to build capacity. With that you can complete container clearance entirely online, with no physical contact with customs officers. He added that under the one-stop-shop arrangement, stakeholders would only need to visit the Command when specific issues arise
He said the command being a trade enabler makes it easier for all stakeholders and the trading public across the value chain.
Onyeka urged importers to declare rightly, noting that if their consignments are declared properly, there would be seamless clearing of their goods.
He further disclosed that his command will aim at collecting collectable revenue instead of maximum revenue which often leaves no room for trader to handle logistics costs and other sundry charges.
“By focusing on collectable revenue, we ensure that the trader makes profit, return to the market and continues to contribute to the society.
He maintained that all consignments would continue to pass through scanners, with unclear images subjected to physical examination.
“The security of Nigeria is sacrosanct. It’s not all about revenue. Containers will still go through scanners. If the risk management system flags red, there will be a physical examination,” he stated.
Onyeka commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, for unveiling the OSS initiative on Feb. 13, describing it as a strategic reform designed to modernise port operations and strengthen trade Facilitation
The command boss noted that the command surpassed its January revenue target due to the collective support of critical stakeholders, particularly freight forwarders, importers, and the media., adding that the Command shall improve on the welfare support to the media while emphasising on capacity building through training.
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