In an attempt to improve trade facilitation and spur economic growth, the Nigeria Customs Service, or NCS, has started a new project to streamline border operations and eliminate several checkpoints between Seme and Lagos.
During an interactive session with members of the Maritime Correspondents Organization of Nigeria, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, the Customs Area Controller of the Seme Border Command, revealed this information.
He said that in order to tackle the issues brought about by the increase in checkpoints and other obstructions that have long hindered efficient trade operations along the route, the Command has formed a task group.
During an interactive session with members of the Maritime Correspondents Organization of Nigeria, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, the Customs Area Controller of the Seme Border Command, revealed this information.
He said that in order to tackle the issues brought about by the increase in checkpoints and other obstructions that have long hindered efficient trade operations along the route, the Command has formed a task group.
Adenuga compared the situation in Nigeria with that of the neighboring Benin Republic, pointing out that although the section between Seme and Cotonou does not have physical checkpoints and officers only use whistles to signal cars when needed, the opposite is true in Nigeria.
There are almost 100 checkpoints along the route from Seme to Agbara via Lagos. By slowing down freight transportation, discouraging traders, and raising logistics expenses, this excessive number of pauses harms the economy, he said.
There are almost 100 checkpoints along the route from Seme to Agbara via Lagos. By slowing down freight transportation, discouraging traders, and raising logistics expenses, this excessive number of pauses harms the economy, he said.
According to the Comptroller, removing pointless checks will boost trade efficiency, improve traffic flow, and increase Nigeria's export competitiveness.
He disclosed that more locally manufactured commodities are making their way to foreign markets, and that export activity across the Seme border has been steadily increasing in recent months.
Adenuga emphasized that a smooth border environment will increase chances for young Nigerians engaged in cross-border trade, create jobs, and promote economic empowerment.
He disclosed that more locally manufactured commodities are making their way to foreign markets, and that export activity across the Seme border has been steadily increasing in recent months.
Adenuga emphasized that a smooth border environment will increase chances for young Nigerians engaged in cross-border trade, create jobs, and promote economic empowerment.
In order to avoid job duplication and foster operational harmony, he also underlined the necessity of cooperation amongst the security agencies that operate along the corridor.
Only two Customs checkpoints are formally authorized along the Seme–Lagos route, according to the Comptroller, who further warns that any agents operating unapproved stations without authorization will be subject to severe disciplinary punishment.
Additionally, he emphasized the significance of a robust collaboration between Customs and the media, characterizing journalists as essential collaborators in advancing accountability, openness, and public knowledge of Customs changes.
Only two Customs checkpoints are formally authorized along the Seme–Lagos route, according to the Comptroller, who further warns that any agents operating unapproved stations without authorization will be subject to severe disciplinary punishment.
Additionally, he emphasized the significance of a robust collaboration between Customs and the media, characterizing journalists as essential collaborators in advancing accountability, openness, and public knowledge of Customs changes.
Adenuga promised that the NCS would keep putting policies in place that promote trade facilitation and regional economic integration, and he reiterated the Command's dedication to open communication and stakeholder engagement.
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