Lagos Free Zone Secures Customs Approval for Green Channel

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has approved the activation of a dedicated “Green “Channel for the movement of cargo from the Lekki Deep Sea Port to the Lagos Free Zone (LFZ).

The approval allows for the seamless and controlled transfer of Free Zone cargo directly from the port to the zone, marking the first time such a sanctioned corridor has been established in Nigeria.

Lagos Free Zone, which has the Lekki Deep Sea Port as its anchor tenant, becomes the only Free Zone in the country to operate an NCS-approved Green Channel. The development is expected to enhance trade facilitation and improve inward logistics for businesses operating within the zone.

Under the arrangement, cargo destined for the Free Zone will move through a dedicated corridor designed to reduce bottlenecks traditionally associated with port clearance and transportation.

The system incorporates 24-hour CCTV surveillance, telemetry, and tamper-evident digital logs to ensure cargo security and compliance, with monitoring by the Nigeria Customs Service.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, said the approval aligns with ongoing efforts to modernise trade processes and strengthen Customs oversight.

He noted that the Lagos Free Zone Green Channel would enhance Customs visibility and boost investor confidence in Nigeria’s economic zones.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lagos Free Zone, Mrs Adesuwa Ladoja, described the activation as a significant step toward improving ease of doing business for tenants.

According to her, integrating the Lekki Deep Sea Port with the Free Zone eliminates logistical uncertainties often associated with port exits, enabling faster cargo movement and supporting manufacturing and regional distribution activities.

Industry stakeholders say the initiative positions the Lagos Free Zone as a strategic hub for trade and industrial operations targeting the Nigerian and West African markets.