… as CGC inspects Real-Time Implementation of B’Odogwu at PTML, TCIP
The Customs Area Controller of Ports & Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML), Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, has disclosed that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is set to acquire seven new mobile cargo scanners to modernise its operations at the nation’s seaports.
Daniyan made the disclosure in response to the complaint by the Director General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Dr. Chinyere Almona, over the inefficiencies at Nigerian ports, as regards especially to cargo handling and the lack of functional scanning systems.
Aloma noted that ports operations relied majorly on physical inspection as the NCS had abandoned the previous scanners.
A situation that impedes the speed of clearance leading to increased cost.
According to Daniyan the new era will discard paper transactions promoting automation and trade facilitation, as well as improve security through mandatory scanning of all imported cargo
He explained that the new initiative includes a proper procurement process with service-after-sale agreements for maintenance and support.
It also includes capacity building through officer training and spare parts availability, and alignment with global Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) standards for supply chain security.
Daniyan said: “In our new (Customs) Act, every bonded terminal is mandated to procure scanners. So why are they not giving us one? Why wait for just one person or Customs to bring them in.
“You are aware that the former service providers started with giving us scanners that are now worn-out. We had service providers like WebFontane, NICIS and others. But scanners are not shared products; they are specific. Our CGC a few months ago, travelled to China, and we are working on getting almost seven scanners.
“We are not just thinking of scanners, we are thinking of owning our own network. The satellite mast and everything will be there. Everything will be paperless”.
Meanwhile, the CGC on Wednesday, the CGC also visited the PTML and Tin Can Island Port (TCIP) Area Commands to conduct an on-the-ground assessment of the implementation of B’Odogwu. During the visit, he met with stakeholders who were undergoing training on the application’s usage at TCIP.
He explained that the visit aimed to gain firsthand insight into the operational challenges of the new digital platform while also assuring that the Service remains fully committed to resolving emerging issues and strengthening the system in the nation’s interest.