Apapa Customs Command Fosters Collaboration to Boost Rail Cargo Movement

By Lod Onyeji

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Apapa Area Command recently convened a meeting with key stakeholders to enhance trade facilitation and optimize cargo movement via rail. The event brought together representatives from the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), clearing agents, and freight forwarders.

*Strengthening Partnerships*

Customs Area Controller Comptroller Babatunde Olomu emphasized that the meeting aligns with the directive of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, to improve logistics through multimodal transport systems. Olomu noted that the goal is to fine-tune the process to improve trade objectives, ultimately benefiting stakeholders.

*Collaborative Efforts*

The Head of Operations at NRC, Akin Oshinowo, reiterated the agency's longstanding cooperation with the Service, highlighting the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) established years ago. He emphasized that the discussion supports the renewed hope agenda for rail transportation in Nigeria.

*Stakeholder Feedback*

Port stakeholders commended the initiative, citing its potential to reduce import costs and improve cargo distribution efficiency. Dr. Osita Chukwu, National Coordinator of the Save Nigeria Freight Forwarders, Importers & Exporters Coalition, expressed hope that the effort would be extended across the entire country.

*Moving Forward*

The engagement featured an interactive session where participants discussed challenges facing cargo rail transport and proposed actionable solutions for improvement. This collaborative effort aims to enhance the efficiency of cargo movement and promote economic growth.