President Tinubu Inaugurates N73 Billion Customs Complex in Ogun State
President Bola Tinubu has officially commissioned a new N73 billion office complex for the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, located in Iperu, Ogun State. This significant development is part of the agency's strategic efforts to expand its operational capacity and enhance working conditions for its personnel, aligning with Nigeria's growing trade and logistics demands.
Modernizing Customs Infrastructure for Enhanced Efficiency
During the commissioning ceremony, which also included the unveiling of a Customs Training College and warehouse, President Tinubu emphasized that the new facility will modernize the NCS's infrastructure and improve its operational efficiency. He highlighted that the complex is designed to curb smuggling activities and facilitate legitimate trade across the Southwest region of the country, supporting economic growth and security.
Addressing Congestion and Expanding Operations
Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr. Bashir Adeniyi, explained that the relocation from the congested Ikeja facility in Lagos was necessary to balance the Service's core mandates of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and enforcement with improved welfare for officers. He noted that the former base in Ikeja had become overstretched due to the significant growth in the size, scope, and responsibilities of the Service.
"We needed a bigger and more conducive environment to accommodate our expanding operations. The new site offers sufficient space to support current and future activities," Adeniyi stated, underscoring the strategic importance of the move.
Project Details and Future Plans
The newly commissioned facility is equipped with modern operational infrastructure, including a furnished office complex, a warehouse opposite the main building, and a planned modern armory. However, Adeniyi disclosed that the project, initially estimated at about N73 billion, remains ongoing with only approximately 45 percent completed. The Service is seeking presidential approval to revise the project cost to reflect current economic realities and ensure its completion within the tenure of the present administration.
Strategic Location and Support from Ogun State
Adeniyi credited the Ogun State Government, led by Governor Dapo Abiodun, for providing over 50 hectares of land for the development and supporting the Service with critical infrastructure required for seamless operations. He also acknowledged the contributions of his predecessor in securing the land and initiating the project. The site is strategically positioned near an aviation village and an existing Customs training college, enhancing its operational relevance for export processing and cargo handling operations linked to nearby aviation facilities.
Customs Readiness for Airport Operations
Regarding Customs' readiness for operations at the airport, Adeniyi confirmed that officers are already deployed across key areas, including the tarmac and terminal, and have been actively involved in cargo handling processes. "We are already on ground. The facilities provided meet our operational requirements, and we are confident of seamless Customs operations as cargo and international flight activities commence," he assured, highlighting the agency's preparedness to support emerging trade infrastructure.
