Comptroller Ajibola Odusanya (right)
The Lilypond Export Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in a landmark achievement, has facilitated non-oil export of goods valued at $2.14 billion in 2024.
The remarkable development brings to the fore the available opportunities in Nigeria’s non-oil export industry, particularly in agricultural products, manufactured goods, and solid minerals.
The Area Controller of Lilypond Export Command, Comptroller Ajibola Odusanya, while speaking at the 2025 International Customs Day celebration, with the theme: “Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity”, reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to enhancing efficiency and combating illicit trade in the export sector.
The Comptroller also disclosed that Agricultural products emerged as the leading contributor to the total export value, accounting for $1.13 billion; over 53% of the overall figure.
He said manufactured goods contributed $341 million, while solid minerals and other products added $336 million and $331 million, respectively.
This performance, according to Odusanya, underscores the ongoing efforts of stakeholders to improve the quality and global competitiveness of Nigerian exports, noting that the NCS emphasized the importance of compliance with global standards, particularly for agricultural exports, to ensure product integrity and competitiveness in international markets, including China, Japan, and Thailand.
In his account of stewardship, Comptroller Odusanya disclosed that in 2024, the Lilypond Export Command facilitated the seamless exportation of goods by processing 30,979 containers, adding that the operation generated ₦275.83 million in revenue through the 2.5% surcharge on previously imported goods, as mandated by the 2021 Fiscal Policy, saying that “This financial boost further reinforced government coffers”.
He admitted that despite an overall successful year, the fourth quarter of 2024 saw a decline in export activities due to global market dynamics and logistical challenges, including a shortage of empty cargo boxes.
He gave the key metrics from Q4 to include:
“Export Value: $783.22 million, down 16.44% from $937.36 million in Q3.
“Export Tonnage: 314,671 metric tons, a 22.49% decrease from 405,980 metric tons in Q3.
“Duty Revenue: ₦91.95 million, down 32.39% from ₦136.04 million in Q3”.
The Area Controller said on a positive note, revenue from the Non-Oil Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) increased significantly, rising by 32.51% from ₦5.33 billion in Q3 to ₦7.07 billion in Q4.
The 2024 success story, according to him was largely attributed to the strong collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and other key stakeholders.
He said “this partnership fostered a conducive environment for trade and equipped exporters to navigate international markets with greater efficiency”.
He urged exporters to prioritize adherence to international quality and preservation standards, particularly in the agricultural sector.
Comptroller Odusanya said compliance with chemical use regulations and preservation techniques remains vital to maintaining product quality during transit.
In his words, “As Nigeria gears up for 2025, the Customs Service is calling on exporters, logistics providers, and regulatory bodies to sustain the momentum achieved in 2024.
“By fostering collaboration and prioritizing quality, the non-oil sector is poised to drive even greater economic growth and position Nigeria as a leading exporter on the global stage.
“With most exporters demonstrating a commitment to compliance, the NCS expresses confidence in achieving a more prosperous year ahead.
“The agency continues to ensure that illegitimate trade activities are curtailed, with seizures handed over to relevant authorities, including the forestry department”.
Comptroller Ajibola Odusanya concluded by saying the $2.14 billion non-oil export performance recorded in 2024 reinforces the immense potential of Nigeria’s export sector, adding that by focusing on efficiency, compliance, and quality, the NCS and its stakeholders are set to unlock new opportunities for economic growth and global competitiveness.
