Nigeria Customs Launches Time Release Study To Facilitate Trade
By Chinonye Anyatonwu
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has at last launched Time Release Study (TRS), to enhance cargo evacuation at the nation’s seaports and fasten trade facilitation.
The event which was attended by various units in the maritime sector, Ministers and Nigeria Customs Service as the host agency was held at the Mariot Hotel Ikeja, Lagos.
In a statement made available from the office of the Customs National Public Relation Officer, said the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi elaborated the steps being taken by his officers and men in line with the policies of the Federal Government to fully meet with the responsibilities of the service with tools such as the TRS.
HE extended his sincere gratitude to each an everyone that are present in today TRS launch.
“Today we are joining other Customs Administrations in the world that have embraced the tools developed by the World Customs Organisation (WCO), to promote the growth of international trade”.
The WCO remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing customs procedures through various instruments and tools, such as the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Among these initiatives is the Time Release Study (TRS), developed to provide comprehensive insights into customs operations’ efficiency.
Another significant milestone is reached today as we commence the TRS in Nigeria, with TINCAN ISLAND Port serving as our pilot location.
The TRS method is a systematic and standardized approach used to measure the total duration of time from the arrival of goods at the customs border until their release.
This initiative represents a critical step in our ongoing efforts to optimize the trading experience and customs operations in Nigeria. It is a strategic endeavour aimed at improving how we facilitate trade, ensuring alignment with international best practices, and contributing substantially to national development. TRS plays a crucial role in assessing and enhancing trade facilitation by providing detailed insights into the efficiency of our processes.
Continuing,”Our dynamic and rapidly changing environment requires swift and adaptable responses to the needs as they arise. Adopting a scientific and datadriven approach is paramount not only for customs administrations but also for all stakeholders involved in international trade.
In response to the dynamic demands of our environment, fostering cooperation between Customs administrations (C2C) and Customs-to-Business (C2B) interactions is paramount. The WCO provides invaluable platforms for such collaboration, offering capacity building, technical assistance, and best practice sharing. With the expertise of our colleagues present, we are wellequipped to support the TRS effectively.
The implementation of TRS in Nigeria adds depth to our understanding of its significance.
In 2010, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) underwent a comprehensive TRS conducted by the USAID MARKETS Project, focusing on the Apapa Port and Seme Border.
This study employed standardized methodologies and precise time analyses, offering crucial insights into our operational dynamics. Subsequently, some twenty cross-cutting recommendations were made, including the development of an Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, implementation of a Single Window system, purchase of additional cargo handling equipment, infrastructure repairs at the ports, streamlining of terminal yard logistics, enforcement of truck safety standards, use of more scanners, implementation of paperless clearance, and imposition of penalties to deter non-compliance. .
However, TRS exercise second attempt was made in 2018, which was unsuccessful due to the lack of proper collaboration among the relevant agencies.
Today’s exercise builds on the lessons learned from both the 2010 and 2018 attempts. We have made significant progress since then, including the implementation of paperless clearance and advancements in our AEO programs. Additionally, provisions under the new Customs Act now speak to the imposition of penalties to deter non-compliance.
The need for greater collaboration, underscored by the presence of three Honourable Ministers today, is a crucial lesson learned from past exercises. Recommendations such as the implementation of a Single Window have been longstanding, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts.
Today’s TRS promises to take a different dimension, aligned with the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led Administration policy targets aimed at promoting effectiveness and efficiency in all fronts, including trade facilitation and economic reform..
NCS is keenly aware of the impact of its operational environment on its activities, which is why we are committed to exploring ways to alleviate difficulties faced by citizens. Through a deliberate effort to identify bottlenecks, we aim to gain a better understanding of the measures needed to resolve these issues.
By prioritizing efficiency and transparency, we endeavour to enhance the overall experience for traders and stakeholders involved in international trade.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to the Secretary General (SG) of the WCO for the invaluable support, provision of resources, and expertise in advancing these initiatives. Involvement with the WCO has been instrumental in ensuring the success of our efforts to modernize customs operations and enhance trade facilitation in Nigeria”.
CGC also extended his heartfelt appreciation to the heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) involved in the NTFC for their support. Special recognition goes to those who delegated officials to be part of the Steering committee on the implementation of the TRS. This collaborative approach holds promising potential as it strengthens the collective efforts. Evolving from a Customs-driven TRS to a nationally driven engagement open doors to collaborative brainstorming and idea-sharing among stakeholders.
Furthermore, this approach serves to bolster our internal capacity, as successful implementation at TINCAN Island Port can pave the way for replication in other ports across the country.
Adeniyi however expresses his gratitude to all distinguished guests for their presence and participation in this significant event.
“Your support and collaboration are invaluable as we work towards achieving our shared goals of enhancing trade facilitation and driving economic prosperity for Nigeria”, Adeniyi stated.
“Together, we can overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and build a brighter future for our nation”.
