In order to alleviate overcrowding at ports, improve the facilitation of trade, and enhance overall competitiveness and efficiency within the sector, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is poised to form a partnership with the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. The result of a purposeful assembly was the culmination of a thoughtful conference with the goal of optimizing the productivity of ports to enable seamless trade facilitation. In a ground-breaking development for Nigeria’s maritime sector, a press release was issued, bearing the signatures of Ismail Omipidan, the Media Aide to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, and Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer of the NCS.
The collaboration between these two entities has been hailed as a momentous achievement, poised to greatly transform Nigeria’s maritime landscape. The main objective of this joint effort was to engage in extensive discussions and implement ideas that would not just enhance the accessibility of ports but also promote smooth collaboration and trade facilitation. A significant topic of conversation revolved around the strategic incorporation of Non-Intrusive Inspection Technology (NIIT) to enhance the effectiveness of operations in Nigerian Seaports.
Deployment of mobile scanning devices will be undertaken.
Recognizing the significant contribution made by NIIT in effectively reducing congestion at ports, the gathering delegated the responsibility to the Comptroller General of Customs to take the lead and give utmost importance to cargo scanning instead of relying solely on conventional physical examination methods. During the gathering, an unveiling of strategies took place, shedding light on the transportation of containers to different locations with great efficiency. The need for prompt action to improve and enhance the performance of current scanning equipment at well-known ports like Apapa, Tincan Island, Onne, and PTML was strongly supported. Additionally, the strategic deployment of mobile scanning devices will be undertaken to accelerate the process of cargo inspections.
Also, the commitment from the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to transport freight to Inland container depots/dry ports remains unwavering. This proactive decision aims to tackle the issue of congestion at major ports, showcasing the NRC’s dedication to finding strategic solutions. Announcements have been made regarding the streamlined emptying of shipping crates from Port Harcourt and their transfer to Aba, while also considering potential expansions towards Onne Port in the future. The scanning installation and maintenance of its facilities required the involvement of pertinent stakeholders, and they were able to come to an agreement on partnering with them.
Maintenance of efficiency and encouragement of innovative advancements.
Furthermore, in the midst of railway track construction, the NRC reached a consensus on a practical strategy by giving consent to bypass the stationary scanner located at Apapa. This guarantees the seamless advancement of the scanning procedure while crucial infrastructure development takes place. The gathering supported the idea of delving into the realm of Public-Private Partnerships in order to supervise and uphold the installation and upkeep of scanning technology. Through this cooperative approach, the objective is to maintain efficiency and encourage innovative advancements within cargo inspection processes. The Nigerian government is demonstrating an unyielding dedication to creating a trade environment that is both favourable and efficient, as evidenced by the remarkable collaborative synergy observed in this meeting.
More so, the main objective of the Nigeria Customs Service revolves around facilitating trade competitiveness and enhancing operational efficiency. They strive to expedite the processing of declarations to ensure seamless services. The Nigeria Customs Service is widely regarded as a benchmark and exemplary organization in its field, consistently delivering exceptional and efficient services to achieve its mission objectives. It prides itself on being a contemporary, agile, and proactive agency that not only influences policy but also plays a vital role in driving Nigeria’s overall progress and growth.
Need to provide recommendations for Gov’t trade & fiscal policies.
Moreover, the Service is celebrated for consistently adopting the latest customs best practices and adhering to international standards, establishing itself as a leader in the global customs community. In order to achieve excellence in the prompt and effective collection and management of revenue, there is a need to provide guidance and recommendations for Governmental trade and fiscal policies. Additionally, enhancing trade facilitation and safeguarding the Nigerian society calls for the generation of precise and reliable statistical data through the establishment of a professional and transparent administrative system that upholds international standards and obligations.
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