The Port Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced its ambition to achieve a record-breaking one-hour clearance time for Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) cargoes, improving on its current two-hour benchmark. This was disclosed by the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Tenny Mankini Daniya, during the command’s celebration of the International Customs Day in Lagos.
Comptroller Daniya emphasized that achieving this goal relies heavily on compliance from importers and their agents. He noted that compliance, including accurate declaration of goods, prompt payment of duties, and readiness for cargo exit, would enable the command to process automobile cargoes within an hour.
In a significant development, Comptroller Daniya revealed that the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has approved the PTML Terminal for the importation of pharmaceuticals. He attributed this milestone to the terminal’s robust security measures and transparent operations.
The CAC applauded Grimaldi Nigeria for their operational efficiency and their recent launch of shipping services between Lagos and Shanghai, China. He described the initiative as a step toward bolstering legitimate trade and fostering economic growth.
The celebration’s theme, “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity”, reflects the command’s drive to enhance operations, said Comptroller Daniya. He assured stakeholders that 2025 would witness further improvements in service delivery, particularly in customs modernization projects.
While reiterating the command’s commitment to efficiency, security, and prosperity, Comptroller Daniya urged stakeholders to continue supporting the Nigeria Customs Service’s modernization agenda under the leadership of Comptroller General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR. He noted that stakeholder engagement remains critical to achieving the service’s objectives.
“Our dispute resolution desks and trade facilitation structures remain active. I also operate an open-door policy, so stakeholders can reach out to me for input on any matter,” Daniya assured.
The CAC called on all stakeholders to uphold their patriotic responsibilities, as encapsulated in Nigeria’s national anthem and pledge. He also highlighted the progress of the B’Odogwu programme, piloted at the PTML Command, and solicited continued support to address initial challenges.
As the command strives to improve its already celebrated clearance time, Comptroller Daniya affirmed that PTML would continue to offer the best customs experience to port users while prioritizing maximum revenue collection, trade facilitation, and national security.
The event served as a reminder of the PTML Command’s pivotal role in driving efficiency, innovation, and stakeholder collaboration in Nigeria’s maritime sector.