The announcement was made by Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi during a stakeholder sensitization forum in Lagos.Adeniyi revealed that some cargoes have remained uncleared in ports for over 15 years, describing the automation initiative as a critical step to address decades of inefficiency. 

He clarified that while revenue from overtime cargo sales accounted for less than 1% of the NCS’s ₦6.3 trillion earnings in 2024, the primary objective of the new system is to streamline trade, not generate revenue. 

“Our focus is on delivering cargoes swiftly to importers, manufacturers, and government agencies, not keeping them stuck in ports,” he emphasized. 

To support this, priority desks have been established to expedite clearance for critical government projects, private sector imports, and diplomatic consignments.

The automated system, Adeniyi assured, will close loopholes, reduce human interference, and prevent criminal exploitation of the clearance process. 

Assistant Comptroller-General Idaho Umar elaborated that the initiative aligns with the NCS’s vision to become a modern, globally competitive organization. 

“The digital clearance system will simplify procedures, enhance data integrity, reduce delays, and restore confidence in cargo management,” Umar stated. 

He highlighted that the platform will ensure transparency, eliminate duplication, streamline documentation, and prevent arbitrary disposal of goods, ultimately easing congestion in ports, terminals, and warehouses.

Umar revealed that the reform reflects the NCS’s commitment to innovation and collaboration, as outlined in the Nigeria Customs Service Act of 2023. 

The platform will be continuously monitored and refined through engagement with terminal operators, shipping companies, customs brokers, and other stakeholders. 

While revenue remains a consideration, Umar emphasized that the overarching goal is to facilitate trade, lower costs for importers, and position Nigerian ports as globally competitive hubs.

The automation of overtime cargo clearance is expected to significantly enhance efficiency and transparency, reinforcing the NCS’s role in driving Nigeria’s economic growth through improved trade processes.