The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), specifically the Lilypond Export Command, has reported a significant increase in export cargo worth N1.39 billion under the Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) during the first quarter of 2024 (Q1'24). This marks a substantial rise of 423.8 percent compared to the N328.2 million recorded in the corresponding period of 2023 (Q1'23). Ajibola Odunsanya, the Customs Area Controller of Lilypond Export Command, disclosed this figure in a statement provided to Vanguard Maritime Report.

According to Odunsanya, the Lilypond Export Command processed a total of 5,891 containers valued at $236.1 million in Q1'24. These containers comprised various commodities such as agricultural produce, manufactured goods, solid minerals, and extractive minerals, among others. He attributed this achievement to the concerted efforts and strategic measures implemented by the command to facilitate export activities.

Odunsanya highlighted the notable growth trajectory witnessed in Q1'24 compared to the corresponding period in 2023. The total number of containers processed surged by 44 percent to reach 5,891, up from 3,784 containers processed in Q1'23. Similarly, the value of export commodities increased by 42 percent to $236.1 million, compared to $154.46 million recorded in Q1'23, indicating sustained momentum in export performance.

Moreover, NESS payment experienced a significant 114 percent increase, reaching N1.39 billion in Q1'24 from N378.27 million received in Q1'23. This increase reflects enhanced revenue generation and compliance with fiscal policies. Surcharge payment for plants, machinery, and imported goods also doubled from N8.79 million in Q1'23 to N18.22 million in Q1'24, aligning with fiscal policy directives.

Breaking down the figures, Odunsanya revealed that a total of 4,229 containers were filled with agricultural produce, generating earnings amounting to $153.43 million, with NESS payment totaling N916.49 million. Manufactured goods, dispatched in 629 containers, contributed significantly to export revenue, totaling $22.29 million, with NESS payment amounting to N112.91 million.

Additionally, the export of solid and extractive minerals witnessed a notable upsurge, with 753 containers dispatched, valued at $34.11 million. NESS payment for this sector amounted to N224.16 million. Various goods, including plants & machinery and personal effects, were exported in 280 containers, contributing $26.26 million to export revenue, with NESS payment totaling N135.77 million. These figures underscore the diversified nature of Nigeria's export portfolio and the immense potential of its resources on the international stage.

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