The Lilypond Export Command of Nigeria Customs Service has processed a total of 5,891 containers of export items valued at $236,087,888.53 from January to March 2024.
Comptroller Ajibola Odusanya, Customs Area Controller of the command who disclosed this to journalists on Tuesday in Lagos, said the exported items include agricultural produce, manufactured goods, solid and extractive minerals, among others
While giving a breakdown of the exported items, Comptroller Odusanya said a total of 4,229 containers were filled with agricultural produce, generating earnings amounting to USD$153,426,308.00 .
According to him 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
For manufactured goods ,the command processed 629 which he said contributed significantly to export revenue, totaling USD$22,289,340.77 and NESS payment to the Federal Government amounting to ₦112,905,501 which is reflecting the sector’s resilience and competitiveness in the global market.
He added that for solid and extractive minerals there was significant increase, with 753 containers dispatched, valued at USD$34,107,959.01 with a NESS payment of ₦224,162,113.74 which highlights the immense potential of Nigeria’s mineral resources on the international stage.
On other goods,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” he said.
