By fabulous reports
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is being praised for its critical role in the efficient evacuation of cargoes from seaports to the hinterland, a key process for reducing seaport congestion and boosting the overall efficiency of Nigeria’s logistics sector.
The Customs Area Controller of Tin Can Island Port, Dera A. Nnadi mni, recently highlighted the significant contributions of the NCS in a comprehensive academic analysis.
The NCS ensures that cargoes are not only cleared efficiently but also transported securely from the seaports to their destinations across the country. This is achieved through several initiatives, including the Fast Track and Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) programs, which have minimized delays and streamlined cargo movements. The introduction of the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) and the pre-release regime has further facilitated the timely release of goods for qualified traders, ensuring that cargoes reach the hinterland and inland countries promptly. Customs officers are responsible for escorting these cargoes to bonded terminals, maintaining the integrity of the supply chain and preventing incidents such as theft or tampering during transit.
Collaboration between the NCS and other stakeholders, such as bonded terminal operators, shipping companies, freight forwarders, logistics providers, and regulatory bodies like the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), is essential for the smooth evacuation of cargoes. Each party plays a vital role in the process, from managing and storing cargo at the terminals to ensuring compliance with customs regulations and facilitating secure transit.
However, the report also identifies several challenges that hinder efficient cargo evacuation, including inadequate infrastructure, inefficient port operations, and limited hinterland connectivity, which contribute to port congestion. These issues not only raise operational costs but also threaten Nigeria’s trade competitiveness globally.
To address these challenges, the report suggests investing in port infrastructure, adopting modern cargo handling technologies, and streamlining customs procedures. Additionally, improving hinterland connectivity through enhanced road, rail, and inland waterway networks is recommended to speed up cargo movements from seaports.
The efficient evacuation of cargoes from Nigeria’s seaports to the hinterland is vital for the smooth functioning of the country’s trade logistics sector. The NCS, through its various roles and collaboration with other stakeholders, plays a central part in this process. By addressing the existing challenges and implementing the recommended improvements, Nigeria can significantly enhance its trade efficiency, reduce port congestion, and contribute to overall economic growth
