Customs train stakeholders in automated transire processes

The Nigeria Customs Service has commenced training and sensitisation for officers and stakeholders in Zone A on its new Automated Transire Process.

The service added that the training and port stakeholders’ engagement, which took place at the Apapa Customs Command, is expected to reduce cargo clearance time, minimise opportunities for human contact and corruption, and enhance automation across the service.

Speaking at the meeting recently, the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, emphasised the transformative nature of the new system and tipped the new process to enhance trade efficiency.

Adeniyi, who was represented at the event by the Assistant Comptroller General in charge of Zone A, Charles Orbih, explained that the service is scheduled to introduce the innovative ATP before the end of March.

According to him, the system will revolutionise customs operations by reducing the time and complexity involved in cargo clearance, “minimising the risk of cargo diversion, and improving overall supply chain efficiency.”

Adeniyi pointed out that with the introduction of real-time tracking, the risk of cargo diversion or loss would be minimised, thereby boosting confidence among stakeholders.

The CGC expressed optimism that the ATP would bring greater transparency and accountability by eliminating manual processes and ensuring that every shipment is monitored from departure to arrival.

On his part, Assistant Comptroller General of ICT, Z. M. Gaji, who represented the Deputy Comptroller General in charge of information and technology/modernisation, Kikelomo Adeola, described the automation of transire processes as a game-changer for Customs operations in Nigeria.

Adeola noted that the training was structured into two sessions, “one for desk officers who would be directly managing the system and another for stakeholders to familiarise them with the new process.”

She expressed delight that the new system was developed in-house by NCS’s ICT officers rather than external service providers, ensuring that it is tailored to Nigeria’s specific trade environment.

While explaining that the NCS would adopt a phased approach, including extensive stakeholder engagement, a user acceptance test, and a pilot rollout at selected locations, Adeola stressed the importance of these steps in refining the system and ensuring that it meets operational realities and industry needs.

She encouraged stakeholders to actively engage in the process, provide insights, and contribute to discussions that would help optimise the system before its nationwide implementation.

During the interactive session, the Customs Area Controller of Apapa Command, Babatunde Olomu, sought clarification on whether the ATP was designed to track Customs officers who are escorts or containers.

In his response, the trainer explained that the system primarily tracks officers to ensure accountability in cargo movements.

However, he added that under the broader B’Odogwu framework, container tracking capabilities would also be integrated to enhance security and monitoring.