Customs Target Faster Cargo Clearance, Deploys E-tracking System At Lagos Port

ßAs part of efforts to achieve faster cargo clearance, enhance trade facilitation and strengthen revenue assurance, th Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced the deployment of the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) at the Port & Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Area Command, Lagos.

In a statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Abubakar, the Customs Area Controller. Deputy Comptroller Nura Miko held a sensitisation workshop on Tuesday for the deployment of the ECTS at the commands headquarters in Lagos.

According to the statement, DC Miko, disclosed that PTML had been selected as the second pilot command for the nationwide rollout of the electronic tracking system following the successful implementation at the Apapa Area Command.

He said the selection of PTML reflected the strategic importance of the command in national revenue generation and trade facilitation.

He further explained that the deployment is part of the ongoing reform and modernisation agenda of the Nigeria Customs Service under the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, PhD, aimed at building a technology-driven, transparent, efficient and globally competitive 21st Century Customs Service.

For years, cargo moving under transire to bonded terminals, between commands or to Free Trade Zones relied on physical escort by Customs officers. However, the service noted that rising trade volumes had made the approach increasingly unsustainable due to delays, possible vulnerabilities and pressure on manpower.

Speaking at the workshop, Deputy Comptroller Miko said the Electronic Cargo Tracking System would address several trade-related challenges while providing multiple benefits to Customs, businesses and other stakeholders.

He stated that the system would provide real-time cargo monitoring through GPS technology from the point of departure to the final destination, ensuring full visibility and control of consignments.

According to him, the system would also help eliminate cargo diversion and leakage through instant alerts triggered by route deviation, seal tampering or unauthorised stops.

DC Miko added that the technology would optimise manpower deployment by freeing officers from escort duties to focus on other core Customs responsibilities, while enhancing revenue assurance through accurate data on cargo movement and accountability for all transactions.

He noted that the additional benefits of the system included improved risk management and compliance, supported by data for intelligence gathering and trader profiling.

On the impact on stakeholders, the Acting Controller said operators would benefit directly through faster cargo clearance and delivery, as there would be no waiting time for escort teams.

He added that the system would reduce the cost of doing business through lower demurrage charges, fewer delays and more predictable transit times.

He further stated that there would be greater transparency and security as consignments would remain tracked and secured throughout their journey under Customs control.

“This workshop is therefore convened to engage our stakeholders on the procedures, responsibilities, and expectations under the Electronic Cargo Tracking System regime,” Deputy Comptroller Miko said.

“I urge all participants to embrace this change, ask questions, and work with us to ensure a seamless takeoff.”

On behalf of the officers and men of the PTML Area Command, he expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs and the NCS Management Team for their commitment to the digitalisation of Customs processes, as well as stakeholders for their continued partnership.

The Acting Controller subsequently declared the sensitisation workshop open and flagged off the deployment of the cargo tracking system with a consignment destined for Don Climax Bonded Warehouse.