The Senate has raised the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) revenue target for 2025 to N10 trillion, an increase from the earlier proposal of N6.584 trillion. This move follows the NCS’s strong revenue performance in 2024.
The decision came during the budget defence session of the NCS before the Senate Committee on Customs, which is led by Senator Isah Jibrin (APC, Kogi East). The committee members expressed satisfaction with how the agency surpassed its 2024 revenue target of N5.079 trillion by more than N1 trillion.
Following this, the committee fully backed the 2025 revenue goal and spending plan presented by the NCS. For 2025, the Customs’ proposed expenditure stands at N1.132 trillion. These budget details are expected to be presented at the Senate’s plenary session when lawmakers reconvene from the Sallah break on Tuesday, June 24.
Senator Jibrin noted that while the revenue target is important, the Customs must not lose sight of other key duties. He urged the agency to strengthen its fight against smuggling and the growing problem of illegal drug trafficking.
“There is a high prevalence of illicit drugs in circulation, which is fuelling criminal activities like banditry. Many of these perpetrators are under the influence of drugs. In addition to revenue generation, Customs must prioritise its role in national security,” he said.
He also noted that the rise in smuggling activities is a concern, particularly because many of the items being smuggled can be produced within Nigeria.
“The President has urged Nigerians to consume what we produce. The goal is to reduce importation to essentials. Many smuggled goods can be manufactured locally, even in their most basic form,” he said.
The senator pointed out that encouraging local production would help the economy in many ways. It would lead to job creation, lower dependence on foreign goods, and help maintain a stable local currency.
“This will not only boost our economy but also create employment opportunities and reduce pressure on the naira,” Jibrin added.
