The Tincan Island Customs Area Command Apapa, Lagos records huge revenue collection under its new Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Joe Anani, as it collects N111.2 billion in May 2026 among other successes
By Innocent Chukwu
Comptroller Joseph Anani, the new Customs Area Controller (CAC) at Tincan Island Port, Apapa, Lagos marked a strong debut at the Command, as it records an impressive revenue of N111.2 billion in May 2026, his first month in office.
Speaking at his maiden media engagement at the Command’s Headquarters at Tincan Island Port, Lagos, Comptroller Anani attributed the achievement to the operational strategies laid down by his predecessor, now Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Frank Onyeka. Comptroller Anani noted that the command was already on a steady growth path before his assumption of duty. He assured stakeholders that his administration would sustain the gains while introducing new measures to enhance efficiency, compliance, and trade facilitation at Nigeria’s second busiest seaport.
Anani said stakeholders’ engagement would remain central to his leadership, with the media playing a vital role in promoting transparency and accountability. He added that the media remained strategic partners in his pursuit of operational excellence in trade facilitation and trade policies.
To strengthen this partnership, Anani pledged regular engagement and timely dissemination of information, alongside training programmes, sensitisation workshops, and other capacity-building initiatives for the media.
On trade compliance, Anani reiterated the Command’s commitment to enforcing the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, insisting that adherence to import regulations would remain non-negotiable. He highlighted ongoing Customs modernisation initiatives, including technology-driven solutions to simplify cargo clearance and boost operational efficiency.
The CAC said the May revenue performance reflected improved importer compliance, enhanced operational effectiveness, and the dedication of officers and men of the Command to national revenue objectives.
Expressing confidence in surpassing previous revenue milestones, Anani noted that the Command’s momentum would significantly contribute to the Federal Government’s fiscal targets. He commended the Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi for his reform agenda, describing his leadership as a source of inspiration for greater service delivery.
Comptroller Anani reaffirmed his commitment to constructive stakeholders’ engagement, and stated that stronger collaboration among Customs, port users, and the media will further strengthen trade facilitation, revenue generation, and economic growth.
Anani added that in line with the NCS new mandate, the administration would uphold total compliance with all applicable laws and regulations as enshrined in the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
According to him, “compliance will be at the heart of our operations, and we will continue to enforce the law firmly, fairly, and professionally”.
The Command the CAC stated, is “Currently performing commendably in the area of revenue generation. This positive trajectory is a reflection of the dedication of our officers, improved compliance levels, and enhanced operational efficiency.
“We intend to consolidate on these gains and, indeed, strive to surpass previous achievements under the preceding administration”.
He also said that as part of our forward-looking agenda, the Command will not relent in leveraging the ongoing modernization drive of the Service.
“We are committed to strengthening systems, processes, and technology-driven solutions that enhances efficiency, and trade facilitation at the port”.
Anani was recently posted from the PTML Customs Command, Lagos to Tincan Island Port as Area Controller.
The media briefing on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 was simply to build stronger bridges of understanding and cooperation between the Command and the Media, Anani said.
He told newsmen during the interactive meeting, “Since assuming office, I have made it a priority to engage continuously with all critical stakeholders in the maritime sector, and the press remains one of the most vital components in that ecosystem.
“Let me begin by acknowledging the role of the media in the success of our operations, because you are not just a channel of communication, but a strategic partner in shaping public understanding, promoting accountability, and enhancing compliance within the system. Your reportage significantly influences public perception of our activities, and by extension, the effectiveness of our mandate.
“In this regard, I want to clearly state that the press will play a vital role in this administration. You will be fully carried along in our policies, operations, reforms, and achievements. We are committed to ensuring timely, accurate, and transparent flow of information to enable you perform your duties effectively.
“Furthermore, this Command will continue to explore ways of empowering the press, particularly through structured training, sensitization workshops, and capacity-building programme. We recognize that a well-informed and well-equipped press corps will not only enhance the quality of reportage but also strengthen institutional understanding of our operations and challenges.
“At the same time, I must use this opportunity to charge members of the press to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in their reportage of the Command’s activities.
“Responsible journalism is critical to maintaining public trust, preventing misinformation, and ensuring that our collective objectives are not undermined by inaccurate or misleading narratives”.
The Controller appreciated the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for the confidence reposed in him through the appointment to head a strategic Command.
He said, “I am deeply grateful for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to reforming and repositioning the Service for greater efficiency and global competitiveness.
“I wish to reiterate that this Command is open, collaborative, and committed to constructive engagement with all stakeholders, especially the media. Together, we can ensure that Tincan Island Port Command continues to play its critical role in national growth, trade facilitation, and revenue generation.
“To further strengthen our relationship with the media, the Public Relations Unit of the Command will be specifically charged with the responsibility of ensuring that all press-related matters receive the priority and attention they deserve.
“The Unit will maintain a close and continuous interface with members of the press, providing timely information, facilitating access to relevant developments, and fostering mutual understanding between the Command and the media. We believe that a strong and professional partnership with the press is essential to achieving our objectives and keeping the public adequately informed about our activities”.
