In a recent address at the Annual General Meeting of the League of Maritime Editors (LOME), Mr. James Ojo, the Customs Area Comptroller for the Ogun 1 area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), highlighted significant challenges in trade facilitation due to the absence of scanning machines at ports nationwide.
Ojo’s remarks underscore the pressing need for technological advancements and increased transparency to address the influx of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) into the country.
Ojo pointed out that the lack of scanning equipment has exacerbated issues related to transparency and efficiency in the maritime sector.
According to him, the absence of such technology not only hampers effective monitoring but also facilitates the concealment of prohibited items, including weapons and drugs, within containerized goods.
“The openness and honesty expected in international trade are compromised when transparency is lacking,” Ojo explained.
He emphasized that transparency in maritime operations—encompassing accurate documentation, declarations, descriptions, and invoicing—is crucial for maintaining integrity within the industry. “Transparency guarantees integrity within the maritime value chain,” he added.
The Customs Comptroller identified several adverse effects stemming from the lack of transparency. He noted that customs revenue generation and anti-smuggling operations face substantial setbacks due to document falsification, false declarations, and inaccurate invoicing.
These issues not only delay the clearance of goods but also contribute to increased dwell time for cargo, which subsequently leads to revenue loss and complications in anti-smuggling efforts.
Ojo’s remarks also highlighted the need for improved infrastructure within the seaports. He pointed out that many examination bays lack proper shelter, which complicates physical inspections and is further exacerbated by adverse weather conditions.
This limitation, he argued, underscores the necessity for the deployment of scanning technology to facilitate more efficient and accurate inspections.
The Customs Area Comptroller called for a collective effort from all stakeholders in the maritime industry to enhance transparency and efficiency.
He stressed the importance of equipping all NCS formations with scanning machines to improve the detection of SALW and other prohibited items. “This will obstruct the supply of weapons and drugs to bandits, terrorists, and other criminals within the country,” Ojo asserted.
The need for such technological upgrades and improved practices in the maritime sector is timely, given the increasing challenges posed by smuggling and illegal trade.
The adoption of scanning technology, alongside a commitment to transparency, is seen as crucial steps toward enhancing trade facilitation, increasing revenue generation, and strengthening anti-smuggling operations.
Ojo’s statements at the LOME AGM serve as a critical reminder of the ongoing challenges within Nigeria’s maritime sector and the urgent need for reforms to safeguard the nation’s borders and facilitate smoother trade operations.
