By ebosele@hotmail.com
The Port & Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced the deployment of the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS), with a stakeholders’ sensitisation workshop aimed at preparing industry operators for the new digital cargo monitoring regime.
Speaking at the workshop held on Tuesday at the PTML Conference Hall, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Nura Miko, announced that the PTML Area Command had been selected as the second pilot command for the nationwide rollout of the Electronic Cargo Tracking System, following its successful implementation at the Apapa Area Command.
He explained that the selection underscores PTML’s strategic importance to national revenue generation and trade facilitation, noting that the initiative aligns with the ongoing reforms and modernisation programme of the Nigeria Customs Service under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
According to Miko, the ECTS is a key component of the Service’s vision to build a technology-driven, transparent, efficient and globally competitive 21st-century Customs administration.
He noted that for years, cargo transported under transire to bonded terminals, between Customs Commands and to Free Trade Zones had relied on physical escort by Customs officers. However, increasing trade volumes have made the practice unsustainable, resulting in delays, operational vulnerabilities and significant manpower constraints.
The Acting Controller said the Electronic Cargo Tracking System would provide real-time monitoring of cargo through GPS technology from the point of departure to final destination, ensuring complete visibility and control over cargo movements.
He explained that the system would eliminate cargo diversion and revenue leakages by generating instant alerts whenever there is route deviation, seal tampering or unauthorised stops during transit.
Miko added that the technology would optimise manpower deployment by relieving Customs officers of escort duties, allowing them to concentrate on other core Customs responsibilities while strengthening revenue assurance through accurate cargo movement data and enhanced accountability.
He further stated that the system would improve risk management and compliance by providing intelligence-driven data for cargo profiling and enforcement activities.
Highlighting the benefits to stakeholders, the Acting Controller said importers, licensed customs agents and freight forwarders would enjoy faster cargo clearance and delivery since there would no longer be delays associated with waiting for escort teams.
He added that the system would reduce the cost of doing business through lower demurrage charges, fewer operational delays and more predictable transit schedules, while enhancing transparency and cargo security throughout the movement process.
“This workshop is therefore convened to engage our stakeholders on the procedures, responsibilities and expectations under the Electronic Cargo Tracking System regime,” Miko said.
“I urge all participants to embrace this change, ask questions and work with us to ensure a seamless take-off.”
He expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs and the NCS Management Team for their commitment to the digitalisation of Customs processes, while also thanking stakeholders for their continued support and partnership.
The workshop concluded with the formal flag-off of the Electronic Cargo Tracking System as the Acting Controller launched the tracking of a consignment destined for Don Climax Bonded Warehouse.
Participants at the sensitisation workshop included Customs officers, licensed customs agents, freight forwarding practitioners, terminal operators and other private sector stakeholders who interface regularly with the Nigeria Customs Service.
The statement was issued by Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Tsafe Abubakar, Customs Public Relations Officer, PTML Area Command.
