Customs Improved Operational Efficiency Yielded Almost 70% Reduction in Cargo Clearance Time – CGC

Customs Improved Operational Efficiency Yielded Almost 70% Reduction in Cargo Clearance Time – CGC

The Nigeria Customs Service has highlighted a significant progress in its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme, which has resulted in an average cargo release time of 43 hours for certified companies—a remarkable 66.9% reduction. This achievement is a key indicator of the enhanced operational efficiency the service has experienced in recent years.

Controller General Adewale Adeniyi emphasized that various strategies implemented by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), including the modernisation of processes and procedures, have greatly improved its operational efficiency.

Adeniyi made these remarks during the annual celebration of International Customs Day 2025 on Monday in Abuja.

The ceremony, observed globally on January 26th, provides an opportunity to assess achievements from the previous year, reaffirm commitments, and strategically prepare for the evolving demands of customs administration worldwide.

“In our pursuit of operational efficiency, the Service has made notable advancements in modernizing our processes and procedures,” stated Adeniyi.

“Our commitment to efficiency is reflected in several key achievements over the years. Notably, the successful implementation of the Advanced Ruling System, which offers binding decisions on classification and valuation prior to shipment arrival, has significantly reduced clearance delays and disputes. Additionally, the impressive results of our AEO programme, achieving an average release time of 43 hours for certified companies, exemplify our dedication to improving efficiency.”

“Over the years, the Service has enhanced its processes to create a smoother trading experience for Nigerians. Late last year, we announced the indigenous development and deployment of our customs clearance platform, ‘B’Odogwu’, which has already facilitated transactions worth billions in revenue during its pilot phase.”

The Customs Chief further stated, “The World Customs Organization’s (WCO) theme for 2025, ‘Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity,’ perfectly encapsulates the fundamental mandates of the NCS.”

“The Nigeria Customs Service’s historic achievement of N6.1 trillion in revenue collection, alongside significant security initiatives, showcases our tangible commitment to these mandates.”

Adeniyi underscored the core responsibilities of Customs, including facilitating legitimate trade, securing national borders, and promoting economic growth, as foundational to the agency’s operations.

He affirmed that the Customs strategic approach effectively balances trade facilitation with robust security measures, directly contributing to the nation’s economic advancement.

“The Service is also enhancing its technological infrastructure through the integration of geo-spatial technology and advanced detection methods, deployment of sophisticated scanning systems at key ports, improved intelligence gathering and analysis capabilities, and the implementation of technology-driven risk assessment protocols.”

“The nationwide trade modernization initiative, comprehensive AEO programme implementation, enhanced technology-driven risk management, and the establishment of the Nigeria Customs Service University for Trade and Technology will serve as additional key performance indicators as we evaluate our achievements at the end of 2025.”