Lagos Free Trade Zone Command hits N113bn in 2025 first quarter, emerges front-runner in revenue collection despite being a new formation

Lagos Free Trade Zone Command hits N113bn in 2025 first quarter, emerges front-runner in revenue collection despite being a new formation
…As House of Representatives Committee applauds Comptroller Olumoh on excellent performance

The Lagos Free Trade Zone Command of Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has recorded astronomical revenue collection for the Federal Government, with over N113billion realised in first quarter of 2025.

The Command made this remarkable achievement, emerged a front-runner in revenue performance
despite being a new Customs formation.

It is pertinent to note that the Lagos Free Trade Zone Command has recorded consistent year-on-year growth. For instance, in 2023, the Command generated N74.05 billion, in 2024, the revenue collection soared to an impressive rate of N358 billion, surpassing the target of N133 billion. As of Q1 2025, the Command has already recorded N113billion, indicating another potentially record-breaking fiscal year.

On curbing illicit trade, the Command
maintains strong inter-agency collaboration in the fight against smuggling and this has yielded tremendous result. For example, last year, through credible intelligence and synergy with relevant agencies, the Command intercepted two containers of Tramadol and one container of unregistered pharmaceutical products, which
were promptly handed over to NDLEA and NAFDAC in accordance with established protocols.

Speaking during the visit by House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise for oversight functions, the Customs Area Controller of the Zone, Comptroller Olanrewaju Olumoh highlighted activities of the Zone since its inception.

He informed : “The Free Zones also referred to as Special Economic Zones, are designed to facilitate landing of goods, raw materials, semi-finished, and even finished products without immediate payment of duties.

“This policy framework is strategically designed to stimulate economic growth, promote industrialisation, and attract foreign direct investment.

“Our Command, established in February 2022, has recorded remarkable progress within a short period. The Command began operations with eight (8) Free Zones. We currently oversee fifteen (15) free zones housing a growing number of enterprises.

“In addition, the Lekki Deep Seaport, under our jurisdiction, continues to experience substantial growth, fast becoming a major maritime hub within Nigeria and across the West African sub-region.

“We look forward to showcasing some of these enterprises and port operations during your visit. The Free Zones under the Command include
Lagos Free Trade Zone; Lekki Free Trade Zone ; Dangote Free Trade Zone; Alaro Free Trade Zone; Eko Atlantic Free Trade Zone;
Ladol Free Trade Zone; Snake Island Free Trade Zone; Eko Support Free Zone; Bestaf Free Trade Zone; Nasco Free Trade Zone; Muritala Muhammed International Airport Free Trade Zone; Flour Mill Apapa Free Trade Zone; Flour Mill Iganmu Free Trade Zone ; Flour Mill Tincan Free Trade Zone; Koko Beach And Wellness Value Chain Resort FTZ;
Lekki Deep Sea Port.”

He went on : “The Lagos Free Trade Zone Command operates under the legislative provisions of Sections 134 to 141 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023. We are grateful for the enabling environment this legislation provides and acknowledged the pivotal role played by the National Assembly, particularly this Honourable Committee in its enactment.

“In alignment with the law, we have implemented a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and dedicated procedure codes to ensure streamlined, transparent, and effective operations.
Our operational focus remains anchored on three strategic pillars:
Trade Facilitation:
Revenue Generation;
Suppression of Illicit Activities”.

On trade facilitation, Comptroller Olumoh said : “Under the visionary leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, we remain committed to operational excellence while fostering a supportive, compliance-driven business environment.

“Regular stakeholders’ engagements allow us to promptly address challenges and encourage sustained investment and innovation.

“Our officers are great professionalism, disciplined, and innovative. Notably, our port infrastructure and scanning technologies at the Lekki Port are currently among the most advanced not only in Nigeria but across the West African sub-region, enabling same-day cargo clearance with unmatched efficiency.”

The Area Controller also mentioned the challenges facing the Command at the moment. He stated : “One of the most pressing challenges currently facing the Command is the urgent need for a permanent Command Headquarters and staff accommodation.

“At present, the Command is operating from facilities graciously provided by our host Free Zones. While we remain grateful for this support, it is imperative that this matter receives immediate attention and prioritisation to ensure operational independence, security, and long-term sustainability”.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Committee expressed great pleasure on the significant strides made by the Zone within a short period, he commended Comptroller Olumoh and his officers for their excellent performance.