The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Free Zone Command achieved a significant milestone by generating N557.02 billion in revenue between January and August 2026. This substantial revenue haul highlights the increasing contribution of the Free Zone corridor to the nation's economy. The impressive figure was disclosed during a handover ceremony at the Zone, where the outgoing Area Controller of Customs, Hauwa Abubakar Anifowoshe, reflected on her tenure and the measures adopted to strengthen the Command.
Anifowoshe, who retired after 35 years of service, attributed the Command's performance to the combined efforts of its officers and other stakeholders. She emphasized that the successes recorded during her time as Area Controller were not achieved by her alone, but were the product of teamwork, discipline, professionalism, and the collective commitment of every officer and member of staff. Her administration prioritized the welfare of personnel while also working to improve relations with host communities and deepen cooperation with sister government agencies.
The Command maintained engagement with Free Zone operators, Lekki Deep Sea Port, bonded terminals, and other strategic stakeholders to ensure that all parties remained involved in the development of the corridor. This collaborative approach contributed to the Command's impressive revenue generation. Anifowoshe's efforts to foster strong relationships with stakeholders were aimed at promoting a conducive business environment within the Free Zone.
Anifowoshe formally handed over the leadership of the Command to the Acting Customs Area Comptroller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Olufemi Kukoyi. Kukoyi pledged to consolidate the gains recorded under the outgoing administration while placing greater emphasis on operational efficiency, technology, enforcement, and trade facilitation. He is expected to build on the existing achievements and further strengthen Customs operations within the Free Zone.
In her farewell remarks, Anifowoshe urged officers and stakeholders to give her successor the same level of cooperation and support extended to her during her tenure. She noted that leadership positions were temporary, while relationships built in the course of service could endure. Anifowoshe also used the occasion to seek forgiveness from anyone she might have offended, knowingly or unknowingly, during her 35 years in the service.
The retiring controller mentioned that she had also forgiven those who might have wronged her during her career. Her words underscored the importance of maintaining positive relationships and a spirit of forgiveness in the workplace. As Kukoyi assumes responsibility for the Command, he is expected to leverage the foundation laid by Anifowoshe to drive further growth and development.
The Nigeria Customs Service's Free Zone Command's impressive revenue generation is a testament to the effective leadership and collaboration of its officers and stakeholders. As the Command moves forward under Kukoyi's leadership, it is poised to continue making significant contributions to the nation's economy. The handover ceremony marked a new chapter for the Command, with Kukoyi at the helm, ready to tackle new challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Key points
- The Nigeria Customs Service's Free Zone Command generated N557.02 billion in revenue between January and August 2026.
- The Command's performance was attributed to the combined efforts of its officers and other stakeholders.
- Deputy Comptroller of Customs Olufemi Kukoyi has taken over as the Acting Customs Area Comptroller, pledging to consolidate the gains recorded under Anifowoshe's administration.
