Streamlining Port Processes: A New Era of Collaboration between Customs and NPA

 By Lod Onyeji 

In a bid to enhance port efficiency and streamline operations, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) have launched a strategic partnership. This collaborative effort aims to improve the ease of doing business at Nigerian ports, reduce congestion, and increase productivity.

According to the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), the success of the NCS is closely tied to the effectiveness of the ports. "If we get it right in our ports, we will get it right in the Service," he emphasized. The CGC noted that the NCS has several initiatives in the pipeline, which require the critical buy-in of stakeholders like the NPA to succeed.

The partnership between the NCS and NPA has already yielded positive results, particularly at the Export Processing Terminal. The CGC expressed optimism about implementing similar initiatives in the eastern ports to boost export activities. "The Nigeria Customs Service is ready to work with our ports authority on initiatives that will ensure the competitiveness of our ports," he added.

In response, the Managing Director of the NPA, Abubakar Dantsoho, assured the NCS of the NPA's unwavering support. "We are here for you, and we will give you all the necessary support. Together, we can move both agencies forward and help Nigeria become a better country," he stated.

This partnership is a significant step towards creating a more conducive and efficient port environment that benefits stakeholders and boosts the nation's economy. As the NCS and NPA continue to work together, Nigeria's ports are poised to become more competitive, efficient, and attractive to investors.