New facility in Iperu set to ease congestion, strengthen operations, and support Nigeria’s expanding trade infrastructure……
President Bola Tinubu on Saturday inaugurated a ₦73 billion office complex for the Nigeria Customs Service Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, in Iperu, Ogun State, marking a major step in modernising the agency’s operational base.
The newly unveiled facility includes a suite of administrative buildings as well as a training college designed to enhance both efficiency and capacity development within the Service.
Declaring the complex open, Tinubu praised the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for spearheading what he described as a forward-looking project.
“I hereby declare this building open, to the glory of God,” the President said at the event.
A Strategic Relocation
Speaking at the ceremony, Adeniyi explained that the move from the long-standing Ikeja base in Lagos was driven by operational necessity.
According to him, the former facility had become overstretched due to the expanding responsibilities of the Service, particularly in areas such as revenue generation, trade facilitation, and enforcement.
He noted that the new Iperu location offers a more conducive and spacious environment capable of supporting both current demands and future growth.
“We needed a bigger and more conducive environment to accommodate our expanding operations,” he said.
Designed for Modern Operations
The complex is equipped with upgraded infrastructure tailored to meet evolving operational needs. These include:
- A fully furnished office complex
- A warehouse positioned opposite the main building
- Plans for a modern armory
Adeniyi added that the facility is strategically located to complement emerging trade and logistics ecosystems, particularly export processing and cargo handling linked to nearby aviation infrastructure.
He also confirmed that Customs officers have already been deployed to key operational zones, including airport terminals and cargo areas, ahead of increased international flight activity.
Project Still in Progress
Despite the inauguration, the project remains ongoing. Adeniyi revealed that only about 45% of the development has been completed, even though the initial cost was pegged at ₦73 billion.
He disclosed that the Service would seek presidential approval to revise the project cost in line with current economic realities, with the aim of ensuring full completion within the tenure of the current administration.
State Government Backing
The Customs boss credited the Ogun State Government, under Governor Dapo Abiodun, for its support in making the project possible.
This includes the provision of over 50 hectares of land and critical infrastructure needed for smooth operations.
He also acknowledged the role of his predecessor in initiating the project and securing the site.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Trade Backbone
The new complex is expected to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly at a time when Nigeria is pushing to expand trade, improve revenue collection, and tighten border enforcement.
With its proximity to key logistics hubs and aviation facilities, the Iperu base positions Customs to play a more central role in supporting the country’s evolving trade architecture.
