Kano Stakeholders Voice Out Concerns Over Bottlenecks in Clearing Goods from Lagos, Onne Ports
Gov Abba and Adeniyi
• As CGC meets Gov. Abba Kabir, restates commitment to enhance trade In Kano
The Comptroller-General, Nigeria Customs Serevice, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has engaged stakeholders from across the import-export ecosystem aimed at addressing operational challenges and fostering a more efficient trade environment.
The meeting, which was held in Kano on Sunday, with stakeholders ranging from the leadership of Customs License Agents, Bonded Terminal Operators, and Importers was an opportunity for them to voice out their concerns over the bottlenecks in clearing their consignments from Lagos and Onne Ports.
The stakeholders highlighted the challenges associated with the change of procedure code and compounded by a cumbersome process for clearance consignments on transire from coastal ports to Inland Container Terminals in Kano.
Addressing the concerns raised by stakeholders, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi emphasized the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to transparency and efficiency, adding, “We understand the frustrations faced by stakeholders, and we are committed to addressing these challenges head-on.”
CGC Adeniyi said, “Our goal is to streamline processes and ensure a seamless flow of goods across borders, ultimately driving economic growth and development.”
In response to the issue surrounding manifest amendment leading to unnecessary delays, the CGC assured stakeholders of proactive engagement with operators to identify and implement solutions, “We will work closely with shipping lines through the Nigerian Shippers Council to resolve any issue hindering the timely clearance of goods.”
While responding to the delayed escort of goods in transit, the CGC announced plans to automate the process by deploying an Electronic Cargo Tracking System.
According to the Comptroller-General of Customs, the stakeholders’ breakfast meeting brought a renewed sense of collaboration, which speaks volumes to his policy thrust and optimism for the future of Nigeria’s import-export sector.
He reiterated the importance of ongoing dialogue and partnership in driving sustainable growth and fostering a conducive business environment, adding, “Together, we will overcome these challenges and unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s trade ecosystem.”
The stakeholders meeting was graced by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Deputy Comptroller-General in Charge of Enforcement, Inspection and Investigation Muhammad Abba-Kura, Comptroller Federal Operations Unit Zone B, Customs Area Controllers of Kano/Jigawa and Apapa Commands among other Senior Customs Officers.
Meanwhile, in a bid to rekindle the longstanding partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Kano State Government, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, embarked on a significant visit to the Kano State Government House.
The meeting, which took place on Sunday morning, served as an avenue for CGC Adeniyi to highlight the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to enhance trade and address food security challenges in Kano State.
The CGC, who recounted his engagements with a visit to the Emir of Kano and stakeholders at the Dawanau International Grains Market, reiterated the Service’s dedication to enhancing trade facilitation and collaborating closely with the Kano community to address common challenges.
He said, “Part of the major concerns that we have in Kano include the need for Customs to establish an export terminal to help streamline business in the state. On behalf of the President, I want to commend the effort to address the challenges of food security, and we believe that with your support, there’s room to do more.”
Furthermore, CGC Adeniyi shared directives from President Ahmed Tinubu regarding the return of detained grains suspected of illegal export to their owners, with the condition that they would be reintroduced into the domestic markets to alleviate food insecurity.
“One of the primary objectives of the visit was to rejuvenate the historical rapport between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Kano State Government, to enhance cooperation for the mutual benefit of both entities.” CGC Adeniyi affirmed.
Speaking further, the CGC said, “Kano has been an esteemed centre of commerce and also a significant link to foster trade in Nigeria. It has been a deliberate strategy of government to promote the development of inland deports and the Nigeria Customs Service is making arrangements to streamline the process in Kano.”
Responding, Governor Abba Kabir of Kano State welcomed CGC Adeniyi warmly. He lauded the proactive approach of the Nigeria Customs Service in safeguarding the nation’s borders and his commitment to promoting economic prosperity in Kano and Nigeria at large.
The governor, who said he was impressed with the CGC’s engagements during his official visit, reiterated the commitment of the Kano State Government to providing the necessary support and cooperation to the Nigeria Customs Service in fulfilling its mandate within the state.
“Let me say that you have come to Kano at the right time when import and export activities need your service to implement policies that will enhance them because Kano is the largest commerce hub after Lagos.” Governor Abba said.
The governor particularly applauded CGC Adeniyi’s visit to the Dawanau International Grains Market and urged expedited action in establishing an export warehouse at the market, “For that, I assure you of my government’s full support so that Kano will become stronger in terms of investment in the country.” he added.
While appreciating the move to intensify the welfare of the citizenry by President Tinubu, Governor Abba also expressed optimism that the Service, having engaged in talks with business communities in the state, the challenges of food scarcity will be a thing of the past.
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