Customs Launches One-Stop Portal to Cut Cargo Clearance to 48 Hours

Introduction to the Nigeria Customs Service’s One-Stop-Shop Initiative

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has taken a significant step forward in its modernisation efforts by officially launching the One-Stop-Shop (OSS) initiative. This reform is anticipated to drastically reduce the time required for cargo clearance, from 21 days to just 48 hours. The initiative was introduced during a meeting with NCS Management and Customs Area Controllers in Abuja, highlighting the commitment of the service to streamline operations and improve efficiency.

Key Objectives of the OSS Initiative

The meeting, chaired by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, aimed to discuss the modernisation agenda of the NCS and the role of leadership in driving reforms across different commands. Adeniyi described the OSS as a “transformative shift” that aligns with global best practices and the federal government’s Ease of Doing Business policy.

He emphasized that the reform is designed to sanitise operations, reduce duplication of efforts, and ensure predictability in Customs procedures. According to Adeniyi, the OSS initiative will not only shorten clearance time but also strengthen trader confidence, restore transparency, and make operations more business-friendly.

The Role of Technology and Physical Engagement

While acknowledging the role of technology in Customs operations, Adeniyi stressed the importance of physical engagement with officers. He noted that although technology has helped, it has its limits. There are moments when physical presence, coming together under one roof, adds weight and value to deliberations. Meetings like this, he said, strengthen unity of purpose and ensure that all stakeholders speak with one voice.

Operational Changes Under the OSS Framework

Under the OSS framework, all Customs Units will work jointly on flagged declarations, eliminating multiple checks and reducing delays. Consignments cleared under the OSS will not be subject to re-interception, a move aimed at reducing costs and enhancing trade facilitation.

This approach is expected to bring about a more efficient and transparent process, making it easier for traders to navigate customs procedures. It also aligns with broader goals of improving the business environment in Nigeria.

Reviewing the Accountability Framework

The Abuja meeting also provided an opportunity to review the Service’s accountability framework. A new central dashboard was introduced to track clearance times, interventions, and stakeholder satisfaction. This tool is expected to enhance transparency and provide real-time data to support decision-making.

Adeniyi assured the Customs Area Controllers that the reform would be piloted at Apapa, Tin Can Island, and Onne Ports before being rolled out nationwide. He added that the initiative is fully supported by the NCS Act 2023 and aligned with the World Trade Organisation’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).

“This is not just a policy. It is a statement of intent that reflects our determination to build a modern, transparent, and trader-friendly Customs Service,” he concluded.

Support from Customs Area Controllers

Following several responses and interventions on the OSS Initiative, the Customs Area Controllers pledged their full support. They described the initiative as timely and necessary to reposition the Service for efficiency. They assured the CGC of their readiness to drive the reform at their respective commands and to work in synergy toward achieving the 48-hour clearance target.

This collective effort underscores the commitment of the NCS to implement meaningful reforms that will benefit both the service and the traders it serves. The successful execution of the OSS initiative is expected to set a new standard for customs operations in Nigeria.