Customs Introduces Advance Ruling System To Curb Illegal Arms, Drug Trafficking

In order to curb illegal arms, illicit drugs importation into the country, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), on Monday, introduced the Advance Ruling System (ARS).

LEADERSHIP reports that the ARS is a global trade facilitation tool and a step by step handbook for a strategic guide for economic operators in Nigeria.

Speaking at the sensitisation workshop for stakeholders and Customs Officers, the comptroller general of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, urged officers of the service to adhere to the Service rules of engagement.
Adeniyi who was represented by the zonal coordinator, Zone A, assistant comptroller general of Customs (ACG), Saidu Yusuf, said the ARS, as well as other recently introduced trade facilitation tools mandates applicants or importers to declare the status of items to be imported.

According to him, the ARS allowed officers of the service to ask questions on classification of consignments, types of consignments and origin of the consignment and valuation beforehand.
He revealed that it will bring to an end the illegal importation of firearms as well as fake and substandard items which he said are flooding the country’s market.

“So, whatever information is given, the moment the importation is done, all items, as long as the laws are followed, is going to be binding on both the importer and the NCS,” Adeniyi said.

“The system mandates applicants or importers to first declare the status of items to be imported and that it allows officers to ask questions on the classification of consignments, types of consignments and origin of the consignment and valuation beforehand.”

Adeniyi further explained that at the end of filling up the status, a certificate will be issued to the consignee or importer or applicant for a moderate fee as deemed fit by the government.

“These guidelines are key tools of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) as well as the World Trade Organisation. By the time the programme becomes fully operational, it will ensure that our role as officers is showcased. It will also show whether the imported items are covered by the end users certificate or not.

“You will also know that there are certain things to do before you can import items such as fish. As long as the Advance Ruling System is followed it is going to be binding on both the importers and the customs officer.

“Like the Time Release study that was recently launched, the Advance Ruling System will harmonise the entire process in line with international best practice.

“The faster cargo is moved out of the ports, the more revenue will be generated. It will reduce congestion and there will be enough space for incoming cargos.
It will be translated into more revenue for the Nigeria Customs Service and more revenue for Nigeria,” he added.