The Nigeria Customs Service has extended the clearance window for overtime cargoes to 120 days and introduced a fully automated system to streamline operations, aiming to reduce port congestion and enhance trade efficiency.

Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi announced the reform Monday during a sensitization program in Lagos, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria. The new 120-day period, up from 30 days for airports and 90 days for seaports, applies to consignments left unclaimed beyond stipulated timelines. Adeniyi said the change addresses the high volume of extension requests – nearly half of his daily correspondence – and supports trade by minimizing delays from abandoned goods. Less than 1% of 2024 port arrivals were classified as overtime, and he expressed confidence the system would eliminate such cases.

The automated platform enhances transparency and data integrity, according to Assistant Comptroller-General Isah Umar, reducing human interference. Chief Superintendent Aliyu Abdulkadir noted that under the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, unclaimed cargoes after 120 days face disposal, with perishable or inflammable items auctioned immediately. A dedicated headquarters help desk prioritizes government project cargoes, emphasizing efficient delivery over revenue alone.

Stakeholders, including shipping companies, terminal operators, and importers, were briefed on the ICT framework, with assurances of ongoing engagement. The reform builds on a January 2024 e-auction portal upgrade, requiring a verified Tax Identification Number and active email for participation, addressing past criticisms of opacity in auctions.