*Nigeria's Customs Modernization Efforts Showcase Progress in Trade Facilitation*

By Lod Onyeji

 

The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has made significant strides in modernizing its operations, improving trade facilitation at the country's busiest port, Apapa. Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, Customs Area Controller of the Apapa Command, assured that the command remains committed to enhancing trade operations.

During a facility tour by delegates from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the National Trade Facilitation Committee, Olomu highlighted the command's progress in trade facilitation and technological advancement. The modernization project, which has a 20-year span, is expected to bring further improvements.

The ECOWAS delegation, led by Kolawole Sofola, commended the NCS for its progress through the B'Odogwu system, which has enhanced trade facilitation and operational efficiency. The National Trade Facilitation Committee's National Secretary, Abdullahi Usman, praised the level of progress achieved, noting that Nigeria is well on its way towards implementing a full national single window system.

This system will streamline trade processes across agencies, further improving efficiency. The ECOWAS tour aimed to assess Nigeria's progress in implementing trade facilitation measures in line with the World Trade Organization's Trade Facilitation Agreement.

As Nigeria continues to modernize its customs operations, the country's trade environment is expected to become more efficient and competitive. The NCS's efforts demonstrate a commitment to improving trade facilitation and enhancing Nigeria's position in the global trade landscape.