Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, Comptroller has revealed plans to review demand notice processing, engage shipping lines and commence targeted training for Customs officers and port users.
The Customs Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Murtala Muazu disclosed this during an engagement with stakeholders at the command, saying that his leadership would be guided by practical interventions, while consolidating existing structures to enhance efficiency and facilitate legitimate trade.
The comptroller noted that he had already developed a roadmap, beginning with releasing and examination officers.
Muaxu explained that the training would be extended to importers, exporters and licensed customs agents, noting that gaps in knowledge and compliance often contribute to errors and delays in the clearance chain.
He added: “I urge everyone to assist my team and me in delivering the mandate entrusted to us. I want to make it clear to the trading public that I am here to strengthen the foundations that have already been laid.”
Also, Muazu directed a review of complaints about delays in processing demand notices, adding that the command would examine the process, identify any causes of delay and take steps to reduce or eliminate them.
The CAC also addressed complaints concerning operational challenges with shipping lines, adding that stakeholders that the concerns would form part of the command’s planned engagement with the shipping companies.
Muazu stressed that the issues would be formally presented as part of efforts to ease difficulties faced by port users.
