The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially launched the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) — a groundbreaking digital innovation designed to strengthen national security, boost revenue generation, and promote seamless trade across Nigeria’s ports.
The pilot phase of the initiative was successfully executed on November 5, 2025, using a container designated for the Kano/Jigawa Area Command, marking the first practical deployment of real-time cargo monitoring technology in the country.
Speaking at the launch in Apapa Port, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, described the ECTS as a strategic milestone in Nigeria’s customs modernisation drive. He explained that the system enables real-time tracking of cargo from departure to final destination through the use of electronic seals and handheld devices, ensuring transparency, preventing tampering, and eliminating diversion of goods in transit.
Oshoba noted that the Apapa Command is serving as the pilot site for the nationwide rollout of the system, which will significantly reduce the need for physical escorts as officers can now monitor shipments electronically.
He commended the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for his visionary leadership and commitment to reform through technology-driven solutions. He also acknowledged that similar systems are already operational in several countries, and Nigeria’s adoption reflects the CGC’s role as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) in advancing global trade facilitation standards.
The Head of B’Odogwu Implementation at Apapa Command, Deputy Comptroller Aondona Fanyam, explained that the ECTS uses three secure methods to unlock containers — remotely via the central control system, locally through an authorised handheld device, or with a physical unlocking card at the destination.
“These multiple layers of access control are built-in safeguards to prevent unauthorised tampering or diversion, ensuring the integrity of cargo and enhancing both security and revenue protection”, he said.
Also speaking, the Team Leader of the Training Unit, Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) Rosemary Wenceslas, revealed that 12 officers drawn from the Rapid Response Unit of the Federal Operations Unit ,(FOU) Zone A, Ikeja, and the Enforcement Team of Apapa Command have been specially trained for the pilot phase.
She noted that the officers have undergone rigorous training on the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) of the ECTS to ensure effective and efficient implementation.
“With the knowledge and technical capacity acquired, our officers are fully equipped to deploy and manage this system successfully. The ECTS pilot will enhance cargo monitoring, reinforce security, and streamline trade operations nationwide”, Wenceslas stated.