Oyedele Lauds Customs Over N4.03trn H1 Revenue, Sets Fresh Target

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, has commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its strong revenue performance and technology-driven reforms.

Oyedele gave the commendation recently in Abuja during his inaugural meeting with the NCS board and a tour of Customs facilities.

He praised the leadership and officers of the Service for improving revenue collection, cargo processing and trade facilitation.

Customs generated N4.03 trillion in the first half of 2026 and added N1.38 trillion in July and August. The performance has put the Service on course to meet its N11 trillion revenue target for the year.

Oyedele attributed the progress to automation, intelligence-led reforms and improved cargo processing strategies.

He said the latest results should encourage Customs to pursue even higher standards in its operations.

“Results are precisely what should propel us to do more,” the minister said.

Oyedele challenged the Service to use its technological advances as a springboard for stronger performance in regional and international trade.

He said Nigeria should seek global benchmarks in port efficiency, cargo clearance, transparency and revenue integrity.

“Nigeria must lead through performance, not rhetoric,” he added.

The minister said the reforms at Customs had created a strong foundation for Nigeria to become a leading trade hub in Africa.

He also expressed confidence in the ability of the Service to sustain its revenue growth while making legitimate trade easier for businesses.

The minister further assured Customs of the Federal Government’s continued support under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He said the government would provide modern technology, operational tools and policy backing to strengthen the Service.

Oyedele’s visit also provided an opportunity to assess the infrastructure and intelligence systems deployed by Customs in its operations.

He urged the leadership and officers to maintain the momentum and ensure that increased revenue collection goes alongside efficient trade facilitation.

The minister said the government expects Customs to remain focused on reforms that can reduce delays, improve transparency and strengthen Nigeria’s position in international commerce.

The commendation comes as the Service, under Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi, continues to expand its use of technology and intelligence to improve customs administration.

Oyedele said the government would continue to support initiatives that enhance revenue generation while promoting a more efficient and competitive trading environment.