Nigeria’s export sector is soaring to new heights in 2024, with the total value of goods facilitated through the newly-consolidated export terminal reaching approximately $1.9 billion. This remarkable growth follows the full operationalization of the Lilypond Export Command by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), a strategic move that has streamlined export processes and significantly improved efficiency.
Since its consolidation in July 2024, Lilypond has become the sole command handling export procedures for the southwest ports, following directives from the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC). The new structure is aimed at eliminating the multiple handling points that previously caused delays, making export procedures smoother, faster, and more efficient.
Key Drivers of Nigeria’s Export Growth in 2024
According to Comptroller Ajibola Odusanya, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) at the Lilypond Command, the changes implemented in 2024 are already yielding impressive results. In fact, the export figures could have been even higher had the consolidation taken place earlier in the year.
In February 2025 alone, the command facilitated exports worth $225 million, with a similar amount recorded in January. These numbers highlight the significant growth and the seamless processing now available at the command, where key agencies like the Department of State Services (DSS), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) have dedicated officers stationed to handle export documentation and clearance.
The Benefits of Streamlined Export Processes
Before the consolidation of the export command, goods cleared by one agency at Lilypond often faced additional scrutiny and stoppages at other ports, including Apapa and Tin Can. However, under the new system, goods processed at Lilypond can move directly into the ports without unnecessary delays. This improvement has drastically reduced both delays and costs for exporters, leading to increased confidence in the export system.
Efficient Export Handling: With agencies working in tandem at Lilypond, export processing is more streamlined, significantly cutting down on the time it takes for goods to move from exporters to the global market.
Improved Port Access: The move to streamline export processes ensures that once goods are processed at Lilypond, they can move seamlessly to the ports, avoiding the previous bottlenecks.
Challenges Remain: Addressing Port Congestion
While the benefits of the Lilypond consolidation are evident, there are still some challenges. The electronic call-up system (eto), which regulates truck movements into the ports, remains a significant bottleneck. Export-bound containers often face delays due to congestion at the ports caused by the high volume of imported goods.
Apapa Port, as the primary exit point for exports, continues to experience high levels of congestion due to the volume of incoming cargo. Tin Can Port, on the other hand, has seen fewer delays due to the existence of an export processing terminal that helps manage cargo flow more efficiently.
Despite these challenges, the streamlining of export procedures at Lilypond has drastically improved efficiency and has paved the way for future growth.
The Role of Customs and NXP in Nigeria’s Export Industry
Though the Lilypond Export Command is not a revenue-generating unit for the NCS (since 99.6% of exports do not attract duties), it plays a pivotal role in facilitating trade and boosting Nigeria’s export potential. The only instances where duties are paid are for temporary imports, goods undergoing repair and re-export, or items requiring special export approvals.
A critical component of the export process in Nigeria is the Nigeria Export Proceeds (NXP), which has been a topic of concern for many exporters. With Rwanda halting its NXP system, Nigerian exporters are closely watching the country’s efforts to ensure the system functions optimally to further enhance trade facilitation.
Comptroller Odusanya assured stakeholders that efforts are underway to address concerns surrounding the NXP system and improve its efficiency.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Nigeria’s Export Sector
With the continued efforts to streamline export processes and address challenges such as port congestion and the NXP system, Nigeria’s export sector is well on its way to achieving even greater success in 2025 and beyond. The operational efficiency at Lilypond Export Command is a shining example of how innovation and government action can drive significant growth in critical sectors like trade and export.
Nigeria’s export sector is poised for a prosperous future, and the benefits of these improvements are just beginning to be realized. The growth seen in 2024 is a solid foundation for the continued success of the nation’s export industry.
By optimizing port procedures, reducing delays, and ensuring the efficiency of key export processes, Nigeria is setting itself up as a global trade powerhouse. Expect more success stories to come as Nigeria continues to streamline its export sector for greater economic impact.
