Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a remarkable revenue haul of ₦1.45 trillion between January and November 2025, reaffirming its position as one of the nation’s highest-performing commands.
Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Okechukwu Onyeka, who has earned a reputation for strong revenue mobilisation, trade facilitation and decisive anti-smuggling operations, has steered the command to what insiders describe as a “record-breaking year.”
Despite challenges associated with the transition from NICIS II to the new Unified Customs Management System, known as the B’Odogwu platform, the command posted an impressive ₦135.21 billion revenue in November 2025, its fourth-highest monthly collection this year. This figure surpasses the ₦120.19 billion collected in the same month of 2024.
Cumulatively, the Tin Can Command generated ₦1.451 trillion in 11 months, reflecting consistent growth despite operational adjustments.
In October, the command intercepted multiple consignments of illicit substances, including cannabis indica, methamphetamine and other hard drugs, with an estimated street value of ₦5.3 billion. The substances were concealed in containers brought into the port, reinforcing the command’s vigilance against illicit trade.
Comptroller Onyeka has also strengthened operational efficiency by deploying tools such as the Advance Ruling System and the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme—global best-practice systems that support transparency and trade facilitation.
At last week’s Comptroller-General of Customs Conference, the Tin Can Island Port Command received two prominent awards: Best in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and a Special Award in B’Odogwu. The recognitions highlight the command’s improved internal processes, stakeholder engagement and contributions to national development.
The awards also reflect Comptroller Onyeka’s leadership style, which emphasises early engagement and strong partnerships with critical stakeholders. Officers say the approach has resulted in streamlined operations, reduced bottlenecks and improved compliance.
Some officers described 2025 as “an incredibly record-breaking year,” noting that overcoming initial challenges with the new B’Odogwu platform has strengthened the command’s efficiency.
According to them, stakeholders are now more compliant, while those dealing in uncustomed or illicit goods “no longer find Tin Can a safe haven.”
The anticipated rollout of the one-stop-shop National Single Window in January is also expected to further enhance operations at the port.
Though he often maintains a low profile, Comptroller Onyeka consistently emphasises his commitment to seamless trade facilitation, national economic protection and optimal revenue generation.
As the command celebrates its latest milestones, stakeholders express confidence that the renewed momentum will drive greater efficiency, block revenue leakages and further enhance national development.