The newly created Area 5 Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Ibeto Seaport and Terminals Command scoops over N4.241 billion revenue in less than three months of its creation
Jude Nzennaya, Port Harcourt
The Ibeto Seaport Customs Command in Rivers State said it has generated over N4.241 billion revenue in just three months of its creation. This was disclosed by the pioneer Command Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Martha Abubakar in a chat with newsmen in Port Harcourt.
In her remarks, the CAC, Ibeto Seaport and Terminal Command, Comptroller Abubakar, said, “I wish to profoundly thank our highly esteemed Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and the entire management team of the Nigeria Customs Service for considering me worthy of the rare honour to serve as the pioneer Comptroller of Ibeto Seaport and Terminal Command. This appointment was not only a personal privilege but also a lifetime opportunity to contribute to national development and to be part of history in laying the foundation of this great Command.”
She posited, “I am pleased to report that the first SGD was captured and commercial operations commenced in Ibeto Seaport and Terminal Command on 3rd July, 2025. Since then, the Command has witnessed steady growth in cargo throughput and revenue generation.”
The CAC continued, “Our performance so far is as follows: July 2025; Revenue generated was ₦1,370,906,227.72 Debit Note (DN) raised: ₦1,027,001; 18August 2025, Revenue generated was ₦1,953,127,882.04 Debit Note (DN) raised: ₦35,241,583.18. This represents a 42.5% increase compared to July. September 1st – 12th, 2025; Revenue generated was ₦859,879,048.30 Debit Note (DN) raised: ₦21,618,105.03; Revenue collected from 3 Jul 25 to 12 Sep 25 was ₦4,183,913,158.06, while Debit Note (DN) raised was ₦57,886,689.39 Total Revenue Collected (3 Jul 25 – 9 Sept 25): ₦4,241,799,847.45. This remarkable growth in such a short time underscores the huge potential of Ibeto Command and the commitment of all stakeholders.” she said.
On the Challenges Overcomed, the CAC, reiterated, “As with every new establishment, our journey began with challenges, Setting up offices and systems from scratch.”
“Navigating legacy overlaps with Area I Command. Managing infrastructure and welfare gaps for officers. Yet, with determination and the guidance of the Comptroller Generals of Customs (CGC’s) policy thrusts of Collaboration, Consolidation, and Innovation, we turned obstacles into stepping stones.”
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) expressed her appreciation to Stakeholders & Officers, she sincerely acknowledged the Chairman and Chief Executive of the Ibeto Group, Chief Cletus M Ibeto, whose unwavering support in providing accommodation, welfare, and encouragement to officers made our work easier at the most critical period of take-off.
I would also like to extend my deep appreciation to the freight forwarding associations, stakeholders, and sister agencies who partnered with us in building trust, promoting compliance, and facilitating trade at Ibeto.”
She posited, “I commend officers and men of Ibeto Command for their commitment, dedication, professionalism, and transparency, you have transformed an empty space into a functional and promising Customs Command.”
She said: “This collective spirit is the true engine behind the milestones we celebrate today. Personal Note, Whenever it’s time for me to step down from active service, I will do so with deep fulfilment and gratitude. My journey in the Nigeria Customs Service has been one of sacrifice, growth, and service to our great nation. To have crowned this journey as the pioneer Comptroller of Ibeto Command is a privilege I will cherish forever. I take solace in knowing that I will leave behind a strong foundation, upon which my successors will build even greater achievements.”
Concluding, the Controller Area Command (CAC) once again expressed her sincere gratitude to the distinguished Comptroller General of Customs and the management team for entrusting her with this historic responsibility. “I would also like to thank the Chairman of the Ibeto Group, my officers, and our stakeholders for their unwavering support.”
“Customs remains committed to facilitating trade, ensuring compliance, and contributing to national revenue and development, she reaffirmed.