The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has sensitised stakeholders on its proposed Automated Transire Process initiative as part of efforts to improve trade facilitation.
The Comptroller General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi who was represented by Charles Orbih, the Assistant Comptroller-General and Zonal Coordinator of Zone ‘A’ of the NCS assured the stakeholders of transparency during the engagement at the Apapa Command, Lagos, on Monday.
“We have come together today to discuss a transformative milestone that is set to revolutionize the way we operate – The Automated Transit Process. This is not just a technological upgrade; it is a strategic shift designed to position Nigeria at the forefront of global trade efficiency, security, and transparency,” Comptroller Adeniyi stated.
He explained that the Automated Transit Process is designed to improve the movement of goods across borders by leveraging state-of-the-art technology.
The Customs boss highlighted the benefits of the initiative, including to reduce the time and complexity involved in customs clearance, minimise the risks of cargo diversion, and improve the efficiency of supply chain.
He also pointed out some of the key objectives of the groundbreaking development, including Speeding up Customs Clearance; Reducing the risk of Cargo Diversion and Improving Tracking; Increasing Transparency and Accountability; and Promoting International Best Practices.
On Speeding up Customs Clearance, the Comptroller explained that by automating transit processes, the Service can reduce bottlenecks, shorten clearance times, and provide faster access to goods.
This, he said, will result to less waiting time at ports and terminals, which benefits importers, exporters, and everyone in the logistics chain.
Adeniyi elaborated that Reducing the Risk of Cargo Diversion and Improving Tracking will assist in real-time tracking and data transparency, emphasising that the risk of cargo being diverted or lost will be significantly minimised.
He also noted that it will help to ensure that every shipment is tracked accurately from point A to point B, boosting confidence among stakeholders.
With reference to Increasing Transparency and Accountability, he mentioned that the new system offers greater visibility into every step of the customs process, which means there will be fewer opportunities for corruption or errors.
He maintained that it will foster trust between Customs and its partners, ensuring compliance with best practices and global standards.
On Promoting International Best Practices, Adeniyi stressed that embracing automation is beyond enhancing local operations, as it also aligns with global standards. He equally disclosed that it will facilitate smoother trade relationships with the Service’s international partners and increase Nigeria’s attractiveness as a trade destination.
He continued: “The benefits of the Automated Transit Process are far-reaching, including but not limited to increased efficiency, reduced operational costs, improved revenue collection, enhanced security and reduced risks; the system will help combat smuggling and illicit trade by providing real-time insights into the movement of goods.
“This makes it easier for us to identify irregularities, enhance border security, and safeguard national interests. Furthermore, Automated Transit Process will strengthen accountability and transparency by removing manual processes and introducing automated checks, ensuring a level of transparency that will be beneficial to all parties involved.”
The Customs leader also noted that importers, exporters, and logistics companies will be able to track their shipments in real-time, eliminating uncertainties and promoting trust.
“As we roll out this automated system, I must emphasize that Stakeholders Collaboration is paramount. We cannot achieve these goals in isolation; it is only through close cooperation with all of you – bonded warehouse operators, terminal handlers, shipping lines, transporters, and badge operators – that we can ensure a smooth and seamless transition to this new process.
“Your insights, feedback, and partnership are crucial to making this system work for everyone. We also understand that change can be challenging, and the introduction of this technology may require adjustments. However, be rest assured that we are committed to supporting you every step all the way. Through continuous dialogue, training, and support, we will work together to ensure that the shift to this automated system is as smooth as possible,” he further remarked.
Comptroller Adeniyi reiterated that the Automated Transit Process represents a transformative leap forward for the Service’s operations.
“It embodies our commitment to modernizing our services, ensuring that Nigeria remains a key player in global trade while also securing a more efficient, transparent and accountable environment for all stakeholders,” he added.
