In an effort to strengthen the maritime sector in Nigeria stakeholders in the maritime sector held a
a strategic meeting at the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in Abuja, to chart a course that not only opens up ports but fosters seamless cooperation and trade facilitation. A key focus was the integration of non-invasive inspection technology (NIIT) to enhance operational efficiency in Nigerian seaports.
This is contained in statement jointly release and signed by the National Public relation Officer Nigeria Customs Service Chief Superintendent Abdullahi Maiwada and the Media Aide to Minister Marine and Blue Economy Ismail Omipidan.
The statement reels out the key resolutions which are:
a. Priority on Scanning over Physical Examination:
Acknowledging NIIT’s role in decongesting ports, the meeting entrusted the Customs General to prioritize cargo scanning over traditional methods.
b. Repair and Utilization of Scanners:
Immediate action was endorsed to optimize existing scanners at ports like Apapa and Tincan Island, utilizing mobile scanners for expeditious cargo inspections.
c. Rail Freight to Inland Containers Depot/Dry Ports:
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) committed to freighting cargoes to Inland container depots and dry ports to alleviate congestion, with plans for efficient container evacuation.
d. Bypassing a Fixed Scanner During Rail Track Construction:
To ensure unhindered scanning during rail track construction, the NRC agreed to bypass the fixed scanner at Apapa.
e. Public-Private Partnerships for Scanning Installation and Maintenance:
Advocating for public-private partnerships to oversee scanning technology installation and maintenance, aiming to sustain efficiency and foster innovation in cargo inspection.
The meeting advocated for exploring Public-Private Partnerships to oversee the installation and maintenance of scanning technology. This collaborative model aims to sustain efficiency and foster innovation in cargo inspection processes
The collaborative synergy showcased in this meeting underscores the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian government to cultivate a conducive and efficient trade environment. The anticipated implementation of these resolutions is poised to positively impact port decongestion, trade facilitation, and overall operational efficiency and competitiveness.
In attendance was the
Attendees, including Hon. Minister Gboyega Oyetola and Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC): Fidet Okhiria who joined Virtually
