Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Imo/Abia Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has generated a revenue of N19.8 billion in the first half of 2025, defying security challenges and infrastructural setbacks in the Southeast region.
The figure was disclosed by the Area Controller, Comptroller Friday Akpan, during the maiden official visit of the Zonal Coordinator, Zone ‘C’, Assistant Comptroller-General Sambo Dangaladima.
Speaking at the command headquarters in Owerri, Comptroller Akpan described the feat as a testament to the resilience and commitment of customs officers, despite disruptions in trade due to insecurity in both Imo and Abia States.
“Security challenges have severely disrupted trade activities in Imo and Abia States, affecting the productivity of excise factories and bonded terminals. Nevertheless, our officers remain undeterred and continue to work hard to meet revenue targets,” Akpan stated.
He revealed that the command generated a total of N19,896,955,655.99 between January and June 2025, and called for additional support to sustain performance.
According to him, the command urgently needs more junior officers to support guard duties as well as improved infrastructure, including sporting and recreational facilities, in line with the Service’s work-life balance policy.
“The poor road networks leading to the command are damaging our operational vehicles and making it difficult for stakeholders to access the facility. We need urgent intervention,” the CAC added.
ACG Dangaladima, who is on a zonal assessment tour directed by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, lauded the efforts of the command and assured that concerns raised would be addressed at the national level.
“I am here to gather firsthand information about your achievements and the issues affecting your operations. Be rest assured, we will continue to work towards providing the necessary support to enhance your performance.”
He commended the command’s professionalism and urged officers not to relent.
“The CGC is fully aware of your efforts, and your contributions to national revenue and security are appreciated. I encourage you not to relent in your efforts to meet and exceed expectations,” he noted.
During the interactive session, stakeholders from bonded terminals and excise factories hailed the introduction of the new Unified Customs Management System, code-named B’odogwu, which they described as a major step toward simplifying customs processes and boosting trade facilitation across the zone.
The visit also featured a strategic engagement with senior officers and key stakeholders, as the NCS continues to evaluate operational readiness and reinforce morale across its formations.
