In a collaborative effort to bolster operational efficiency, the Nigeria Customs Service joined forces with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in a strategic meeting with maritime stakeholders. The gathering, presided over by Comptroller Suleiman Chiroma at the Apapa Area Command on Friday, 1 December 2023, aimed to identify challenges impeding cargo clearance and propose sustainable solutions for a smoother and more efficient delivery of services.
Comptroller Suleiman Chiroma, in his leadership role at the meeting, underscored the dedication of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR. He emphasized the commitment to seeking external assistance and mobilizing collective efforts to streamline the cargo clearance process.
Addressing the assembly, Comptroller Chiroma remarked, “The team has devoted the past week to assessing various seaports, airports, and Customs processes. This meeting with our stakeholders is pivotal to achieving a seamless and efficient trade facilitation process.”
IMF representative Kenneth Head emphasized the crucial role of automation and the implementation of a single window system in enhancing cargo clearance processes. Meanwhile, Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba, the Customs Area Controller for Apapa Area Command, reiterated the service’s determination to achieve a 48-hour clearance process.
“Cargo clearance is a comprehensive process that necessitates every stakeholder to fulfill their roles diligently. We have identified challenges and are actively engaged in addressing necessary gaps,” stated Jaiyeoba, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to operational improvements.
Stakeholders participating in the meeting voiced concerns over delays and bottlenecks in the clearance processes. Gerald Mbamala, representing Bonded Terminal Owners, advocated for the welfare of officers in the Apapa environs, stressing the importance of conducive accommodation, upgraded equipment for cargo handling, and improved access roads to the port.
Tunji Igbaugba, representing APM Terminal, proposed the adoption of API interaction to notify agents once their cargoes are cleared. Emphasizing the potential for reduced physical interaction and the elimination of paper-based processes, he suggested that this approach could significantly contribute to expediting the clearance process.
