In a significant development for Nigeria’s export economy, the Nigeria Customs Terminal has reported a remarkable accomplishment at its export terminal, Lilypond Terminal in Lagos. According to a statement released by Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer of the service, Customs Area Controller Ajibola Odusanya announced in Abuja on Wednesday that between January and September 2023, the Lilypond Terminal successfully exported 12,438 containers with a free onboard value totaling an impressive $519 million.
This achievement highlights the growing prominence of the Lilypond Terminal as a hub for export business, and Odusanya provided further insights into the exports during the aforementioned period. The terminal facilitated the export of 6,524 20-foot containers and 5,914 40-foot containers, encompassing a wide range of goods. The exports included agricultural products like cocoa, cashews, soya, ginger, hibiscus flower, cotton, and sesame seeds, along with locally manufactured items such as cigarettes, cosmetics, and beverages. Additionally, the export terminal handled solid minerals like aluminum, copper, magnesium, lithium, and zinc.
Notably, the export of these goods was made easier by the government’s policy, which stipulates zero duty payments for most export transactions. Exporters are generally exempt from export duties, except in specific instances where previously imported goods are being re-exported, in which case a 2.5 percent levy is applied with government authorization.
Ajibola Odusanya emphasized the crucial role of the Nigeria Customs Terminal Service in ensuring the smooth flow of goods across borders and reiterated the service’s pivotal position in supporting Nigeria’s export economy. As a one-stop shop for export businesses, the Lilypond Terminal continues to play a vital role in this endeavor.
Stakeholders using the export terminal commended the efficiency of customs officers in processing documents, acknowledging their dedication to their work. However, they also highlighted challenges related to shipping companies and advocated for more government agency representatives stationed at the terminal to enhance overall efficiency.
Babatunde, the Head of Processing at Diamond Star Port and Terminal Limited, emphasized the collaborative efforts with shipping lines and government agencies in facilitating the processing of exports. This collaboration ensures that only goods duly released by customs are exported, further boosting the terminal’s credibility.
Emmanuel Ekle, the Southwest Principal Trade Promotion Officer at Nigeria Export Promotion Council, highlighted the seamless online registration process for exporters. The council also provides essential support for trade promotion activities, administers export incentives, and manages the export expansion grant, further facilitating the growth of Nigeria’s export sector.
The successful export figures from the Lilypond Terminal underscore its critical role in Nigeria’s broader economic ambitions, and stakeholders look forward to continued growth in the country’s export activities.
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