Tincan Island Port Command Marks Leadership Transition After Record Revenue Year

By Lod Onyeji

LAGOS — The Nigeria Customs Service marked a milestone in its leadership rotation on May 22, 2026, as Assistant Comptroller-General Festus Onyeka formally handed over command of the Tincan Island Port Command after overseeing a record-breaking fiscal performance.

Onyeka’s tenure, which coincided with his promotion to the rank of Assistant Comptroller-General, concluded with the command surpassing its 2025 revenue target. The port collected ₦1.61 trillion against a target of ₦1.52 trillion, a surplus driven by what officials described as intelligence-led operations, improved compliance, and enhanced stakeholder engagement. First-quarter 2026 collections reached ₦401 billion, signaling sustained momentum.

The outgoing controller credited the results to coordinated enforcement and trade facilitation measures. Under his watch, the command intercepted illicit drugs and other prohibited goods with an estimated street value exceeding ₦35 billion. Officials said the seizures reflected the service’s expanding role in national security and its mandate to disrupt transnational criminal networks operating through Nigeria’s maritime gateways.

Stakeholder relations were a central focus during the period. The command strengthened channels with freight forwarders, terminal operators, shipping lines, and regulatory agencies, aiming to reduce disputes and improve clearance efficiency. Internal capacity building was also prioritized, with workshops and training programs introduced to raise professional standards and morale among officers.

Onyeka also highlighted collaboration with the Customs Officers’ Wives Association, noting that welfare programs had contributed to a more stable workforce and stronger community ties.

In handing over to Comptroller Joe Anani, Onyeka called for continuity and urged officers, partner agencies, and the trading community to extend the same cooperation that underpinned recent gains. He described the command as “one of the greatest honors” of his career and pledged ongoing support in his new role at Customs headquarters.

The Tincan Island Port Command is one of Nigeria’s busiest seaports and a critical node for revenue generation and cargo clearance. Its performance is closely watched as an indicator of the Nigeria Customs Service’s broader modernization agenda under Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

The handover took place at the command headquarters in Lagos in the presence of senior officers and stakeholders.