Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Kano/Jigawa Area Command has announced that it generated N63.07 billion in revenue between January and June 2026, marking a significant increase compared to the corresponding period in 2025.
The impressive performance underscores the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen non-oil revenue generation while enhancing trade facilitation and border security across Nigeria.
Speaking during a media briefing in Kano, the Customs Area Controller of the Kano/Jigawa Area Command attributed the revenue growth to improved compliance by importers and exporters, enhanced intelligence-driven operations, effective stakeholder engagement, and stricter enforcement of customs regulations.
According to the Controller, the command remains committed to supporting Nigeria’s economic development by ensuring efficient revenue collection, suppressing smuggling activities, and facilitating legitimate trade within Kano and Jigawa states.
He disclosed that the command collected N63.07 billion during the first half of 2026, a figure that exceeded the amount generated during the same period in 2025.
The Controller described the achievement as evidence of the dedication and professionalism of officers and men of the command, noting that continuous reforms within the Nigeria Customs Service have contributed significantly to improved operational efficiency.
Revenue Growth Reflects Improved Compliance
He explained that increased voluntary compliance among stakeholders played a major role in the command’s performance.
The Controller noted that sustained sensitisation campaigns, stronger collaboration with the business community, and the deployment of modern customs procedures have encouraged traders to comply with import and export regulations.
He added that the command has continued to simplify customs processes while maintaining strict enforcement measures against revenue leakages.
According to him, these efforts have created a more transparent environment for legitimate businesses while discouraging illegal trade practices.
Anti-Smuggling Operations Intensified
Beyond revenue generation, the Kano/Jigawa Area Command said it has intensified anti-smuggling operations across its area of responsibility.
The Controller stated that officers have continued to intercept prohibited goods and prevent illegal cross-border activities capable of undermining Nigeria’s economy.
He stressed that smuggling deprives the government of much-needed revenue, threatens local industries, and poses serious security and health risks.
He warned smugglers and economic saboteurs to desist from illegal activities, stressing that the command remains vigilant and prepared to enforce the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act.
The Controller reiterated that intelligence-led surveillance and strategic patrols would continue across border communities to curb smuggling networks.
Partnership With Stakeholders
The Customs boss praised importers, exporters, licensed customs agents, security agencies, and members of the business community for their cooperation.
He noted that collaboration with stakeholders has been instrumental in achieving the command’s revenue targets and improving compliance levels.
According to him, regular consultations with traders have helped resolve operational challenges while promoting mutual understanding of customs procedures.
He assured stakeholders that the command would continue to maintain an open-door policy aimed at improving service delivery and supporting lawful trade.
Commitment to Trade Facilitation
The Controller reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to facilitating legitimate trade while ensuring strict compliance with existing laws.
He explained that the service is balancing revenue generation with efforts to reduce delays in cargo clearance through technology-driven customs operations.
He added that efficient customs administration remains essential to attracting investment, promoting industrial growth, and improving Nigeria’s competitiveness within regional and international markets.
The Controller encouraged traders to embrace digital customs platforms and comply with all documentation requirements to avoid unnecessary delays and penalties.
Supporting National Economic Agenda
The revenue performance aligns with the Federal Government’s broader strategy of expanding non-oil revenue amid ongoing economic reforms.
With customs duties serving as a major source of government income, the Nigeria Customs Service has continued to modernise its operations through digitalisation, intelligence gathering, and institutional reforms designed to improve efficiency and accountability.
Economic analysts say improved customs revenue provides additional resources for infrastructure development, healthcare, education, security, and other critical public services.
The Kano/Jigawa Area Command remains one of the strategic commands within the Nigeria Customs Service due to its importance in facilitating trade across northern Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
Looking Ahead
The Controller expressed confidence that the command would sustain its momentum during the second half of 2026.
He urged officers to remain disciplined, professional, and committed to excellence while encouraging stakeholders to continue supporting the Nigeria Customs Service’s mandate.
He reaffirmed that the command would maintain zero tolerance for smuggling, revenue evasion, and other forms of economic sabotage while strengthening partnerships that promote lawful trade and national economic growth.
As Nigeria continues efforts to diversify government revenue sources beyond crude oil, the Kano/Jigawa Area Command’s performance highlights the growing role of customs administration in supporting fiscal stability and sustainable economic development.
Sources
- Nigeria Customs Service (NCS)
- News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
- Federal Ministry of Finance
