Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, reported a 9.56% increase in export trade for the fourth quarter of 2025, reaching an estimated $858.11 million, driven primarily by agricultural produce.
The Customs Area Controller, Lilypond Export Command, Comptroller Samuel Ariyibi, disclosed the performance during his maiden press briefing in Lagos, attributing the growth to targeted stakeholder engagement and enhanced trade facilitation strategies.
“Agricultural produce remains the dominant export category, accounting for $568.27 million in exports,” Ariyibi said. “Upon assumption of duty, I initiated strategic engagements with critical stakeholders in line with the policy thrust and reform agenda of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, with emphasis on value, volume and seamless processes.”
He added that the command has consolidated previous achievements while implementing measures to expand legitimate export trade across its operational area.
Export surcharge collections also surged to N208.54 million in Q4 2025, up from N91.95 million in the same quarter of 2024, reflecting increased trade activity and compliance.
“I urge all exporters operating within this command to remain compliant, adhere strictly to export guidelines, and refrain from all forms of trade infractions,” Ariyibi stressed.
The CAC assured stakeholders of the command’s continued support through capacity-building initiatives and trade facilitation measures designed to boost Nigeria’s economic objectives and strengthen the integrity of the export value chain.
This performance underscores the growing confidence in Nigeria’s export corridors and the increasing contribution of the agricultural sector to the nation’s foreign exchange earnings.
