The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is embarking on an ambitious initiative to revolutionize cargo clearance at the Port Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command in Lagos. Their objective is to reduce the clearance time for roll-on-roll-off (RoRo) cargo, such as cars, motorcycles, and trucks, to a remarkable one hour, significantly improving upon their current two-hour benchmark. This ambitious goal hinges on the cooperation of importers and their agents, who are urged to maintain full compliance with customs regulations. The NCS believes that with accurate declarations, timely duty payments, and efficient exit procedures, the one-hour target is well within reach. This accelerated clearance process promises to streamline import operations, reduce congestion at the port, and ultimately boost trade efficiency.
The PTML Command’s commitment to modernization and operational excellence is further underscored by the recent approval from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC) to handle pharmaceutical imports. This accreditation signifies the command’s robust security measures and transparent operating procedures, instilling confidence in the handling of sensitive goods. The PTML Command has established itself as a secure and reliable gateway for pharmaceutical products, contributing to the nation’s healthcare supply chain. This achievement also highlights the command’s proactive approach to expanding its service portfolio and diversifying the types of cargo it handles.
The NCS has also lauded the contributions of Grimaldi Shipping Line, a key partner in the PTML’s success. Grimaldi’s commitment to efficient shipping operations, including the recently launched Lagos-Shanghai route, is seen as a positive development for trade relations between Nigeria and China. This new shipping route opens up significant opportunities for increased bilateral trade and strengthens economic ties between the two nations. The NCS recognizes the importance of such partnerships and encourages the continuation of legitimate shipping practices and the expansion of trade activities.
The PTML Command envisions 2025 as a year of continued progress, building on the achievements of previous years. The command is playing a pivotal role in the NCS’s broader modernization project, which is already showing positive results. This commitment to modernization entails the adoption of advanced technologies, streamlined processes, and enhanced training for customs personnel. The aim is to create a more efficient, transparent, and secure customs environment that facilitates trade and economic growth.
A cornerstone of the PTML Command’s strategy is its emphasis on stakeholder engagement. Maintaining strong relationships with importers, agents, shipping lines, and other stakeholders is crucial for achieving common goals and ensuring the smooth flow of trade. The command recognizes the value of collaboration and open communication in addressing challenges, fostering trust, and promoting a mutually beneficial environment. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of shared responsibility in achieving trade facilitation objectives.
The PTML Command’s pursuit of a one-hour RoRo cargo clearance target, its approval for pharmaceutical imports, and its strong partnership with Grimaldi Shipping Line all point towards a dynamic and forward-thinking approach to customs operations. These initiatives, coupled with the command’s commitment to modernization and stakeholder engagement, lay the groundwork for enhanced trade efficiency, increased revenue generation, and a more robust contribution to the Nigerian economy. The command’s proactive stance positions it as a key player in facilitating trade and driving economic growth in the region.
