Customs, PEBEC Roll Out Strategic Plan to Fast-Track Port Clearance
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in partnership with the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), has unveiled a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at improving port efficiency and strengthening Nigeria’s trade competitiveness.
The initiative was launched during a three-day operational workshop held in Apapa on April 7, 2026. The workshop, themed “Customs Leadership in Port Efficiency, Inspection Reform and Clearance Timeline,” is designed to drive practical implementation of key reforms across port operations.
Speaking at the event, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, outlined a five-pillar strategy centred on joint inspections, risk-based cargo clearance, optimisation of scanning infrastructure, enforcement of service timelines, and enhanced inter-agency coordination.
He emphasised that the focus has shifted from policy formulation to execution, stressing the need for measurable outcomes in port operations.
According to him, the Service is transitioning to intelligence-led cargo processing, leveraging digital platforms and scanning systems to ensure faster and more transparent clearance procedures for traders.
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Adeniyi disclosed that the workshop would produce a reform implementation matrix to guide execution, noting that progress would be closely monitored to ensure accountability. He also urged personnel to maintain high standards of professionalism, integrity, and consistency in service delivery.
In her remarks, the Director-General of PEBEC, Zahrah Mustapha-Audu, highlighted the importance of adopting risk-based and data-driven inspection systems to reduce delays and lower the cost of doing business.
She noted that efficient and transparent border processes are critical to improving Nigeria’s trade environment and global competitiveness.
Earlier, the Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Tariff and Trade, Caroline Niagwan, said the evolving mandate of the Service places it at the forefront of trade facilitation and economic growth, adding that operational efficiency must be evident across all commands.
As part of the engagement, the NCS and PEBEC delegation also visited the National Single Window facility, where they met with the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji, and other stakeholders to assess ongoing progress and address operational challenges.
The reform initiative underscores ongoing efforts by the government to streamline port processes, enhance transparency, and position Nigeria as a more competitive trading hub.
By PRNigeria
