In Kano, customs charts new course on trade facilitation, holds breakfast meeting

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

Hope was restored again to customs agents, importer- exporters and business operators when the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service(NCS) Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, had a breakfast meeting with them in Kano.

The meeting was aimed at addressing operational challenges, bottlenecks impeding businesses and fostering a more efficient trade environment.

The meeting, held on Sunday, 10 March 2024 in Kano, Kano State with stakeholders including leadership of Customs License Agents and Bonded Terminal Operators.

Importers however seized the opportunity to voice their concerns over the bottlenecks in clearing their consignments from Lagos and Onne Ports.

The stakeholders highlighted the challenges associated with the change of procedure code and compounded by a cumbersome process for clearance consignments on transit from coastal ports to Inland Container Terminals in Kano.

Addressing the concerns raised by stakeholders, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi emphasized the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to transparency and efficiency, adding, “We understand the frustrations faced by stakeholders, and we are committed to addressing these challenges head-on.”
CGC Adeniyi said, “Our goal is to streamline processes and ensure a seamless flow of goods across borders, ultimately driving economic growth and development.”

In response to the issue surrounding manifest amendment leading to unnecessary delays, the CGC assured stakeholders of proactive engagement with operators to identify and implement solutions, “We will work closely with shipping lines through the Nigerian Shippers Council to resolve any issue hindering the timely clearance of goods.”

While responding to the delayed escort of goods in transit, the CGC announced plans to automate the process by deploying an Electronic Cargo Tracking System.

According to the Comptroller-General of Customs, the stakeholders’ breakfast meeting brought a renewed sense of collaboration, which speaks volumes to his policy thrust and optimism for the future of Nigeria’s import-export sector.
He reiterated the importance of ongoing dialogue and partnership in driving sustainable growth and fostering a conducive business environment, adding, “Together, we will overcome these challenges and unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s trade ecosystem.”

The stakeholders meeting was graced by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Deputy Comptroller-General in Charge of Enforcement, Inspection and Investigation Muhammad Abba-Kura, Comptroller Federal Operations Unit Zone B, Customs Area Controllers of Kano/Jigawa and Apapa Commands among other Senior Customs Officers.