Nigeria’s land border trade is showing renewed momentum as enforcement reforms and regional trade frameworks begin to yield measurable outcomes, particularly along key corridors linking the country with neighbouring West African markets.
Fresh data from customs authorities indicates a rebound in export activities at the Idiroko border, alongside a remarkable surge in revenue generation, signalling improved compliance and operational efficiency within the system.
Exports resume at Idiroko as Ogun Customs revenue hits N285.6m
In a significant development for cross-border commerce, exports resume at Idiroko as Ogun Customs revenue hits N285.6m, marking a turnaround for the Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service.
The acting comptroller of the command, Oladapo Afeni, disclosed that the command generated N285.6 million within the review period, representing a sharp increase compared to figures recorded in the corresponding period of 2025.
According to him, the performance reflects a year-on-year growth of over 1,000 per cent, highlighting the impact of intensified enforcement, improved border management, and increased stakeholder collaboration.
Export activities rebound after prolonged lull
A major highlight of the report is the revival of export operations, as exports resume at Idiroko as Ogun Customs revenue hits N285.6m, ending a period of inactivity that had previously limited trade flows through the corridor.
The command recorded the movement of 95 metric tonnes of goods with a Free On Board (FOB) value of N305.7 million, a notable improvement from the same period last year when no export transactions were documented.
Analysts say the development underscores the growing effectiveness of trade facilitation policies, particularly under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, which promotes duty-free movement of goods within the sub-region.
The Idiroko border, strategically located along Nigeria’s southwestern frontier, serves as a critical gateway for trade between Nigeria and neighbouring countries, including Benin Republic.
Revenue growth driven by enforcement activities
The surge in revenue, which reinforces that exports resume at Idiroko as Ogun Customs revenue hits N285.6m, was largely driven by proceeds from baggage assessments and auction sales of seized petroleum products.
Customs officials confirmed that Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) intercepted during anti-smuggling operations contributed significantly to revenue through auction processes.
Afeni noted that the command’s revenue sources include legitimate import and export duties, ETLS-related trade, and assessments on goods transported through passenger baggage.
This diversified revenue base, combined with stricter enforcement measures, has enhanced the command’s financial performance.
Anti-smuggling operations yield results
The improved revenue profile is closely linked to intensified anti-smuggling operations across the border axis.
Customs authorities have ramped up surveillance and intelligence-led enforcement to curb the illegal movement of goods, particularly petroleum products, which are often smuggled across borders due to price differentials.
Afeni commended traditional rulers, community leaders, and local stakeholders for their support in combating smuggling, noting that community cooperation has been instrumental in achieving operational success.
He also acknowledged the role of the media in raising awareness and promoting compliance with customs regulations.
Strengthening trade compliance and regional integration
The development that exports resume at Idiroko as Ogun Customs revenue hits N285.6m reflects broader efforts by the customs service to strike a balance between enforcement and trade facilitation.
Experts note that improving compliance among traders is critical to boosting revenue while ensuring seamless movement of goods across borders.
The ETLS framework, in particular, has played a key role in encouraging legitimate trade by offering incentives for compliant exporters within the West African sub-region.
As Nigeria continues to deepen its participation in regional trade agreements, efficient border operations will be essential to maximising economic benefits.
Leadership support and institutional reforms
Afeni attributed the command’s improved performance to the support and strategic direction provided by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the service’s management team.
He emphasised that ongoing reforms within the customs service, including digitalisation and enhanced monitoring systems, are helping to improve operational efficiency and accountability.
The customs leadership has prioritised transparency, revenue optimisation, and stakeholder engagement as part of its broader reform agenda.
Economic implications for Ogun and Nigeria
The resurgence in export activities and revenue generation at Idiroko carries significant economic implications for both Ogun State and the wider Nigerian economy.
Increased trade flows through land borders can stimulate local economic activity, create jobs, and enhance revenue for the government.
Moreover, the ability to sustain export operations will be critical in diversifying Nigeria’s revenue base, particularly as the country seeks to reduce its dependence on oil exports.
Analysts also point out that improved border management can strengthen investor confidence by demonstrating Nigeria’s commitment to facilitating trade while maintaining regulatory oversight.
Outlook for border trade operations
Looking ahead, stakeholders expect the positive trend to continue, provided that enforcement efforts are sustained and policy consistency is maintained.
The milestone that exports resume at Idiroko as Ogun Customs revenue hits N285.6m is seen as a step toward revitalising Nigeria’s land border trade ecosystem.
However, experts caution that challenges such as smuggling, infrastructure deficits, and policy inconsistencies must be addressed to sustain long-term growth.
With continued collaboration between customs authorities, local communities, and regional partners, the Idiroko border could emerge as a model for efficient and secure trade facilitation in Nigeria.