– Commit to expedited freight processing

Oritsegbubemi Omatseyin

Lagos —The Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Tincan Island Port Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, has committed to focusing on trade promotion and significantly cutting down cargo delays after a rise in revenue in January 2026.

During a press conference with reporters, Comptroller Onyeka revealed that the command earned ₦145.9 billion by the end of January 2026, marking a rise of approximately ₦25.9 billion from the ₦116.412 billion noted in the same period of 2025.

The CAC highlighted that the command aims to transform into a trade facilitator in 2026 by streamlining processes for port users. “What we plan to do moving forward, unlike last year, is to be recognized as a trade enabler. Indeed, we will support trade and make it simpler for those involved in commerce,” he said.

He acknowledged the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for offering robust institutional support to the command, highlighting that this assistance has contributed to establishing a strong base for enhanced operations.

The CAC also highlighted the significance of ongoing cooperation with partners to reduce extended cargo storage time at the port. He stated: “Involving stakeholders is essential, as we need to communicate that cargo delays will be minimized as much as possible. No one should take pride in holding cargo at the port for two weeks. Our aim is to ensure that everyone works together so that cargo delays become a thing of the past.”

Reiterating the command’s dedication to promoting lawful commerce, Comptroller Onyeka emphasized that safety concerns would continue to be the top priority.

He stated that shipments identified by scanning systems would be subject to manual inspection, adding that national security would remain unaffected in the effort to streamline trade.

He also praised reporters for their expertise and urged ongoing factual reporting, showing gratitude for initiatives to confirm details prior to release.