The Nigeria Customs Service, has introduced a new One-Stop-Shop initiative aimed at reducing cargo clearance time at ports from the current average of 21 days to just 48 hours.
The initiative was unveiled in Abuja during a meeting between the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and Customs Area Controllers.
Adeniyi described the OSS as a “transformative shift” that would bring Nigeria’s cargo clearance processes in line with global standards and the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business policy.
“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,” Adeniyi said.
According to him, the OSS will streamline operations, eliminate duplication of duties, and guarantee predictability in clearance procedures.
“The OSS initiative will not only shorten clearance time from 21 days to 48 hours, but it will also strengthen trader confidence, restore transparency, and make our operations more business-friendly,” he added.
The Comptroller-General stressed that while technology has greatly improved Customs operations, physical engagement among officers remains essential.
“As much as technology has helped us, it has its limits. There are moments when physical presence under one roof adds value to our deliberations. Meetings like this strengthen our unity of purpose and ensure we speak with one voice,” he said.
Under the OSS framework, all Customs units will jointly handle flagged declarations, ensuring consignments cleared under the scheme are not subjected to further interception.
The move is expected to reduce costs for importers, speed up trade, and curb opportunities for corruption.
The service also announced the deployment of a central dashboard to monitor clearance times, interventions, and stakeholder satisfaction, thereby improving accountability.
Adeniyi noted that the initiative is backed by the NCS Act 2023 and is consistent with the World Trade Organisation’s Trade Facilitation Agreement.
The pilot phase will begin at Apapa, Tin Can Island, and Onne ports before a nationwide rollout.
Customs Area Controllers pledged their support during the Abuja meeting and assured the leadership that they would implement the reform at command level to achieve the 48-hour clearance target.
This development follows recent policy reliefs, including the exemption of raw materials, spare parts, and certain machinery from the four per cent Free on Board, levy after consultations between NCS and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria.
