We’ve Achieved 86 Percent Stakeholders Compliance at Tin Can Port, Says Comptroller Onyeka
... " There's Increased Transparency, Dialogue "
The Customs Area Controller, Tin Can Island Port Command , Comptroller Frank Onyeka has said that stakeholder compliance at the command has risen to 86 % following reforms that prioritise transparency, dialogue, use of technology and operational efficiency.
The Area controller who disclosed this in an exclusive interview with JournalNG, described the progress as rewarding and the result of consistent engagement with importers, agents, and logistics partners.
He said that the command’s compliance milestone amid broader reforms was driven by a “no-choke” strategy which discourages excessive enforcement pressure on stakeholders while promoting sincere declarations and mutual respect.
Onyeka said the reforms have a renewed emphasis on trust and verification as customs officials now encourage traders to record cargo examinations via video, to reduce unnecessary disputes and ensuring smoother clearance processes.
The controller also said that stakeholder feedback, has played a critical role in shaping policy as the improved compliance has also had direct impact on revenue. Worthy of note, is the first half of 2025, which he said the command collected ₦747 billion, surpassing its 2024 midyear total. While some attribute the increase to tighter enforcement, Onyeka insisted it stems largely from collaboration and voluntary compliance.
Beyond revenue and process reforms, Onyeka pointed out that the command intercepted uncustom goods valued at over ₦8.2 billion which have been handed over to relevant sister agencies like the Department of State Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control and others
Mr. Onyeka stressed that particularly in transitioning to the Unified Customs Management System known as B’Odogwu, a platform introduced by the Comptroller-General of Customs , Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to replace the NICIS system, while the system is gradually gaining ground, they are encouraging people to come onboard and offer training sessions weekly , with a dedicated WhatsApp line for inquiries.
On the issue of Demand Notices, he defended their use, provided they are evidence based noting that if an undeclared dutiable item is discovered inside an examined consignment a demand notice is justified to recover the revenue shortfall adding that such notices are not issued arbitrarily.
He added that the command is not out to frustrate traders out of business while collecting duty as it is poised to achieve maximum collectable revenue without disruption of port activities
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