By Ajibola Adedoye
Trade facilitation remains a cornerstone of the work of men and officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Tin Can Island Port Command (TCIP), we have adopted innovative approaches to streamline processes, reduce delays, and enhance the ease of doing business.
Comptroller Frank Onyeka, Customs Area Controller, Tin Can Island Port Command made this statement in his speech while addressing journalists in an event marking the 2025 International Customs Day in Lagos.
Comptroller Onyeka said this year event themed “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security and Prosperity” resonates deeply with the very essence of our mission at the Tincan Island Command and aligns seamlessly with the strategic priorities of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
According to him, through the future deployment of the B’Odogwu-Nigeria Customs Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), the NCS have automated key procedures by ensuring transparency and reducing human intervention.
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“The integration of advanced technologies such as blockchain, e-Customs platforms, and artificial intelligence has not only enhanced the speed of cargo clearance but also reinforced our commitment to meeting global best practices as seen in the pilot command PTML.
“Furthermore, the Command has prioritized stakeholder engagement as a critical enabler of efficiency. By fostering partnerships with terminal operators, freight forwarders, Shipping lines and regulatory agencies, we have built a collaborative ecosystem that supports seamless operations.
These efforts have contributed to Nigeria’s improved ranking in The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), the Logistics Performance Index (LPI) and the Ease of Doing Business
assessments.
Speaking on security as a pillar of prosperity, Comptroller Onyeka disclosed that “As custodians of our nation’s borders, the security of our supply chain is non-negotiable. Our intelligence-driven risk management systems ensure that we strike a delicate balance between facilitation and control. The adoption of smart border technologies such as non-intrusive inspection scanners, advanced risk profiling tools, and the future application of big data analytics which is a core feature in B’Odogwu has enhanced our ability to intercept illicit trade while promoting legitimate commerce.
“Under the banner of the Tincan Anti-Smuggling Initiative our Command has recorded remarkable successes in intercepting contraband goods, countering smuggling, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. These actions not only safeguard national security but also
protect the economic well-being of legitimate traders and businesses.
“Our role extends beyond managing trade flows when it comes to fostering sustainable economic growth, we are key drivers of national development. Customs revenue remains a significant contributor to government coffers, funding critical infrastructure projects and social programs. In 2024 alone, the Tincan Island Command surpassed its revenue targets, a testament to the dedication of our officers and the efficiency of our systems” he maintained.
In his submission, the Zone A Coordinator and Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, ACG OC Orbih is of the opinion that this year’s theme aligns closely with the Comptroller-General of Customs’, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi’s policy thrusts of Collaboration, Consolidation, and Innovation which entails working together across departments, with international partners, and with other government agencies leading to creation of stronger and more effective customs processes.
Speaking further, the Zonal Coordinator opined that “Consolidation involves bringing our resources, systems, and strategies into a unified, powerful approach that maximizes our operational capabilities. Innovation drives us to adopt new technologies, develop creative solutions and continuously improve how we serve Nigeria’s economic interests.
“Zone ‘A’ being the bedrock of the Nigeria Customs Service represents a critical economic gateway for Nigeria, embodying the strategic importance of the Service in connecting our nation with global markets. Hence, the need for us to get it right.
“To our esteemed leaders and decision makers, we call upon you to support our vision. Your strategic investment in our infrastructure, technological capabilities, and human capital is crucial. By empowering the Nigeria Customs Service, you directly contribute to national economic resilience, security, and global competitiveness” he stressed.
In his submission, Ian Saunders, Secretary-General, World Customs Organization (WCO) said “This year, we are embarking on a path that challenges to communicate more and better, to tell the stories of the positive work NCS is doing and to remind ourselves of the fundamental drivers of our effort. When we tell these stories, we must be open and candid.
“The goals we are pursuing are large and complex and the work to accomplish them must be understood to be ongoing. To describe our efforts effectively, we must blend data with an ability to tell compelling people-centered stories. By weaving facts and narrative, we can engage, influence, teach and inspire listeners”.
The 2025 International Customs Day had representatives from various stakeholders such as Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANCLA), National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON), National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), Nigeria Shippers’ Council (NSC) among others.
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