The Lilypond Export Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has processed a total of 5,891 containers of export items worth $236,087,888.53 in the first quarter of 2024.
This was made known by Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Command, Comptroller Ajibola Odusanya while addressing newsmen at Ijora, Lagos on Tuesday.
Comptroller Odusanya highlighted the exported items as follows; agricultural produce, manufactured goods, solid and extractive minerals among others.
According to him, the breakdown of exported items include 4,229 (20ft and 49ft) containers filled with agricultural produce, generating earnings amounting to USD$153,426,308.00.
The CAC noted that the Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) received a payment of ₦916,492,465.00 underscoring the robust contribution of agricultural exports to the national economy.
He emphasised that the command processed 629 (20ft and 40ft) containers of manufactured goods which contributed significantly to export revenue, totaling USD$22,289,340.77 – NESS payment to the Federal Government amounting to ₦112,905,501 which reflects the sector’s resilience and competitiveness in the global market.
Comptroller Odusanya stressed that the export of solid and extractive minerals witnessed a ‘notable upsurge’, with 753 (20ft and 40ft) containers dispatched, valued at USD$34,107,959.01 – and NESS payment of ₦224,162,113.74 which highlights the immense potential of Nigeria’s mineral resources on the international stage.
On other goods processed, he said: “Additionally, various goods such as plants & machinery, and personal effects were exported in 280 (20ft and 40ft) containers, contributing USD$26,264,280.07 to export revenue. A NESS payment of ₦135,771,439.38 was made, emphasizing the diversified nature of Nigeria’s export portfolio.
“A comparative analysis reveals a substantial growth trajectory in Q1 2024 compared to the corresponding period in 2023. Total containers processed in 2024 Q1 surged by 44% to reach 5,891(20ft and 40ft) containers as against 3,784 (20ft and 40ft) containers processed in 2023 Q1, signifying heightened trade activity at the Command. Export commodities’ value also surged by 42% to USD$236,087,888.00 as against $154,459,566.39 recorded in 2023 Q1, underlining the sustained momentum in export performance.
“NESS payment witnessed an impressive 114% increase, reaching ₦1,389,331,520.15 from ₦378,268,430.57 received in 2023 Q1, indicative of enhanced revenue generation and compliance. Surcharge payment for plants & machinery, and imported goods doubled from NGN 8,785,188.00 in 2023 Q1 to NGN 18,218,964.00 in 2024 Q1 representing a 70% difference, aligning with fiscal policy directives.
“In the area of stakeholder’s engagement, the Command has maintained its open-door policy and resolved a lot of issues of common interest with concerned stakeholders. The Lilypond Export Command, as the lead agency in the drive for export trade facilitation has consistently collaborated with all relevant agencies such as the NPA, NAFDAC, NDLEA, QUARANTINE, DSS, NPF, Department of Forestry and the Federal Produce Inspection Service. Exporters and their agents have continuously appraised the concept of joint examinations and how it helps reduce cargo clearance time.
“Let me also at this juncture thank other critical Stakeholders such as the Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Nigeria Shippers Council, various Maritime associations and the Media for their collaborative efforts and synergy while carrying out our statutory mandate. The Command will continue to leverage on your contributions and cooperations to ensure efficient service delivery to the nation.”
Comptroller Odusanya reiterated his gratitude to all stakeholders and partners for their unwavering support and collaboration.
He stated that the command remain committed to fostering consolidation, collaboration and innovation to ensure seamless trade facilitation under the leadership of Comptroller General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
He equally reiterated the Nigeria Customs’ dedication to promoting affective trade practices and economic prosperity going forward.
