To boost Nigeria’s trade competitiveness and enhance national security, the Controller of Customs in charge of Hajj and Cargo Terminal, Controller Micheal Awe, has commissioned an Advanced Cargo Screening X-ray Machine at the Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc’s ultra-modern warehouse in Lagos.
This accentuates the significant efforts of the federal government to modernise port and cargo operations, ensuring faster clearance of goods while tightening security protocols to curb illicit trade.Speaking at the event, Controller Awe highlighted the dual benefits of the facility, streamlining cargo processing for legitimate businesses while reinforcing Nigeria’s defences against smuggling and contraband.
“The installation of this X-ray machine aligns with our mandate to simplify processes, promote transparency, and facilitate legitimate trade while safeguarding national security,” he said.
According to him, deploying such technology demonstrates Customs’ commitment to building a robust, technology-driven cargo management system.
“This innovation will not only reduce processing time but also strengthen operational efficiency and boost stakeholders’ confidence in Nigeria’s cargo handling system,” he added.
The Advanced Cargo Screening X-ray Machine is designed to handle high cargo volumes with precision. It allows Customs officers to detect concealed or prohibited items without disrupting the flow of trade.
The system is expected to give importers and exporters greater predictability in their business operations by reducing delays often associated with manual checks.
Experts have argued that the commissioning comes at a critical time when Nigeria seeks to enhance its ease of doing business rating and expand non-oil exports.
With global supply chains becoming more technology-dependent, cargo transparency and speed remain key factors for attracting investment and positioning Nigeria as a regional trade hub.
In a statement, SAHCO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Customs and other government agencies in achieving seamless trade facilitation.
For freight and logistics industry stakeholders, the development is expected to ease long-standing challenges around cargo clearance delays, bottlenecks, and security risks.
Shippers, freight forwarders, and investors see it as a strong signal that Nigeria is ready to embrace smarter, more transparent trade processes.
