Tinubu commissions Customs FOU ‘A’ complex in Ogun, signals strategic relocation drive
…Adeniyi underscores modernisation push, improved officers’ welfare
By Maureen Aguta
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned a state-of-the-art Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’ complex of the Nigeria Customs Service in Iperu, Ogun State, in a move seen as a significant boost to the Service’s operational capacity and reform agenda.
The newly completed facility, unveiled on Saturday, April 4, 2026, is set to serve as the new operational base for FOU Zone ‘A’, with plans already underway for a full relocation from its current base in Ikeja, Lagos.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, described the project as a strategic response to rising operational demands, noting that existing infrastructure in Lagos had become overstretched.
According to him, the development aligns with the Service’s broader objective of strengthening its core mandates of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and anti-smuggling enforcement, while also prioritising the welfare and productivity of personnel.
“We have just commissioned the Federal Operations Unit here, and relocation will commence imminently. The complex is fully furnished, with all critical accessories installed to ensure seamless operations,” Adeniyi said.
He disclosed that the facility includes a modern armoury and is complemented by a large warehouse located directly opposite the complex, which will support existing storage capacity at the nearby aviation village.
Adeniyi further revealed that the Service has already established a functional presence at the newly commissioned cargo airport in the area, with officers actively participating in cargo handling and terminal operations.
“We are already operational at the airport. Our officers conducted tallying during the offloading of the first cargo in the presence of Mr President. Necessary infrastructure has been put in place to support our activities there,” he added.
The Customs boss commended Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for his administration’s collaboration in facilitating the project, describing the partnership as critical to its successful delivery.
He also paid tribute to former Comptroller-General, Hameed Ali, acknowledging his role in initiating the project and laying the groundwork for its completion.
On the financial outlay, Adeniyi noted that the project was initially valued at ₦73 billion but indicated that prevailing economic conditions may necessitate a cost review.
The expansive complex is part of a broader master plan expected to host approximately 142 structures, including a training college, multipurpose halls, and a sports complex—facilities designed to deepen institutional capacity, enhance training, and improve staff welfare.
Industry observers say the relocation of FOU Zone ‘A’ to Ogun State reflects a deliberate decentralisation strategy by the Customs Service, aimed at decongesting Lagos operations while positioning the Service to better leverage emerging logistics corridors, particularly around the new cargo airport.
The development underscores the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to modernisation, operational efficiency, and long-term institutional growth in line with evolving demands of global trade and border management.