The Nigeria Customs Service and the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council have unveiled an ambitious reform drive aimed at eliminating long-standing inefficiencies in cargo clearing processes at the nation’s seaports and sharpening Nigeria’s global trade edge.
Announced at a three-day workshop in Apapa, the initiative brings together top officials and industry stakeholders to confront persistent cargo clearance delays.
Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi said the reforms will focus on practical delivery, with measures such as joint inspections, risk-based cargo processing, improved scanning systems, strict timelines, and stronger coordination among agencies.
He stressed a decisive shift from policy to performance, insisting that modern tools and digital platforms must translate into faster, more transparent port operations. Adeniyi also pledged close oversight of a reform execution plan to ensure results are not only promised but achieved.
PEBEC Director-General Zahrah Mustapha-Audu highlighted the need to abandon blanket inspections in favour of intelligence-led processes, noting that smarter checks would reduce delays and cut the cost of doing business. She added that efficient and transparent border systems are essential to strengthening Nigeria’s standing in global trade.
Reinforcing the urgency, Deputy Comptroller-General Caroline Niagwan said the Service’s evolving role places it at the heart of economic growth, demanding consistent efficiency across all commands.
The reform push also extended to a visit to the National Single Window facility, where Adeniyi and the PEBEC team met with Zacch Adedeji and other stakeholders to assess progress and tackle remaining operational gaps, signalling a coordinated effort to turn reform promises into real change.