Ogun: President Bola Tinubu on Saturday inaugurated a N73 billion legacy project comprising 142 buildings for the Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service.
Tinubu said the project, when completed, would provide international-standard facilities and serve the broader public interest.
The President performed the inauguration in Iperu, within the Ijebu North Local Government Area of Ogun State.
Further highlighting the project’s impact, Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, stated that the project would strengthen revenue generation, trade facilitation and enforcement operations.
Adeniyi noted the facility would enhance officers’ welfare and improve efficiency, particularly across Lagos and the surrounding areas.
“This project is estimated at about N73 billion from inception. As of now, we have achieved approximately 45 per cent completion. The expected timeline for full completion depends on further approvals and funding.”
“We seek Mr President’s understanding to review aspects of the initial approval. This will help ensure the project can be completed within his tenure, pending necessary adjustments.”
He explained that expanding Customs operations had outgrown the existing Ikeja office, necessitating relocation to a more spacious environment.
All FOU (Federal Operations Unit) activities currently in Lagos will, over time, transition to Iperu. More than three decades ago, the Ikeja office adequately met operational needs.
“The scope of operations has significantly expanded,” he said.
Adeniyi commended Gov. Dapo Abiodun for providing land and supporting the project’s development.
He also acknowledged former Comptroller-General, Ahmed Alli, for initiating the project and securing the land.
Adeniyi said a Customs warehouse within the complex was nearing completion to support land and aviation operations.
He added that the project would include a Customs training college to strengthen personnel development.
In line with efforts to enhance efficiency, Adeniyi disclosed that officers had been deployed to the Ogun airport to handle cargo operations at the tarmac and terminal. Over the past six months, the Federal Government has provided support to Customs operations at the airport, following several engagements.
The contractor, Mohammed Daggash, said the 100-hectare site would accommodate 142 buildings, including a training centre, a university, and a sports complex.
Daggash described the project as a landmark investment to strengthen institutional capacity and deliver long-term value for the service.