The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), specifically the Lilypond Export Command, has reported a substantial increase in revenue generated through its Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme (NESS), amounting to ₦7.1 billion in the first quarter of 2025. This figure marks a modest rise from the ₦7 billion recorded during the same period last year, indicating a positive trend in export activities.
During a news conference held in Lagos, Mr. Ajibola Odusanya, the Customs Area Comptroller (CAC) of the Lilypond Export Command, shared these insights, highlighting the command's significant uptick in export operations. The command processed a total of 11,459 containers, which included both 20-foot and 40-foot units, nearly doubling the 5,891 containers handled in the first quarter of 2024.
Odusanya attributed the surge in export activities to a diverse range of commodities, including agricultural produce, manufactured goods, and solid minerals. He detailed the earnings from these exports, stating, "From the 11,459 containers handled by the command in the first quarter of 2025, which were stuffed with agricultural produce, earnings amounted to $596.8 million; $329.9 million was generated from manufactured goods; $50.1 million from solid minerals; and other goods accounted for $87.4 million of trade value."
In comparison, the previous year saw agricultural produce valued at $542.9 million, manufactured goods at $134.6 million, solid minerals at $87.4 million, and other goods at $18.1 million. The cumulative export value for the first quarter of 2025 reached an impressive $986.4 million, reflecting a staggering 318 percent increase over the $236 million value recorded in the same quarter of 2024. This represents a remarkable increase of $750.3 million, underscoring the command's enhanced performance.
Odusanya expressed optimism about the command's future, noting that under his leadership, the Lilypond Export Command has continually improved its operations. He emphasized the importance of attracting more exporters to contribute to the Nigerian government's economic diversification agenda through non-oil exports. He stated, "The command would continue to attract exporters and serve as a key contributor to the Nigerian government’s economic diversification agenda through non-oil exports."
Furthermore, he highlighted the consolidation of export operations at the Lilypond Export Command, which has been implemented in compliance with directives from the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi. This consolidation has significantly improved the efficiency of export handling, particularly at the Lagos ports.
Odusanya also pointed out the recent formal launch of the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) scheme on February 14, 2025, during which outstanding exporters were recognized for their contributions to national trade. He described the event as a testament to the growing vibrancy of Nigeria's export ecosystem, noting that it served to celebrate those who are actively contributing to the country's economic growth.
He expressed gratitude towards stakeholders and sister agencies for their critical roles in supporting the command's efforts to streamline and enhance export processes. Odusanya acknowledged their contributions, stating, "I appreciate all the stakeholders and sister agencies for contributing to the increase in export, adding that they remain committed to ensuring seamless trade facilitation."
As the NCS continues to report these encouraging figures, the Nigerian export landscape appears to be on an upward trajectory, with the potential for further growth in the coming quarters. The government's focus on economic diversification through non-oil exports is likely to pave the way for a more resilient and robust economy.
In summary, the first quarter of 2025 has shown promising signs for Nigeria's export sector, with the Lilypond Export Command leading the way in revenue generation and operational improvements. This development not only reflects the command's commitment to enhancing trade facilitation but also highlights the vital role of exports in Nigeria's economic future.
