The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, is set to commence full operations of a newly installed state-of-the-art cargo scanning machine at APM Terminals, Apapa Port, Lagos, as part of efforts to enhance trade facilitation, operational efficiency and paperless cargo clearance.
The scanner, identified as the FS6000 scanning machine, is expected to significantly improve cargo examination processes by reducing physical inspections, shortening clearance time and strengthening transparency and compliance within port operations.
Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Information and Communications Technology, Oluyomi Adebakin, stated this during a recent visit to the scanning site to assess the level of preparedness ahead of its commissioning.
During the inspection, he said the installation and operational readiness of the scanner had reached about 80 per cent, with the remaining work expected to be completed before the official launch.
According to him, the deployment of the new scanning technology aligns with the Service’s drive toward end-to-end digitalisation of customs operations. He noted that once fully operational, the scanner would eliminate the need for excessive physical documentation, reduce human contact, and enhance transparency in cargo processing.
The scanner is also expected to boost national security by improving the detection of concealed or prohibited items, while supporting faster and more efficient cargo clearance for compliant traders.
The Nigeria Customs Service is working in collaboration with APM Terminals and the Trade Modernisation Project to ensure a seamless transition to full scanning operations at the port. The partnership underscores a shared commitment to improving service delivery, revenue collection and the overall efficiency of port operations.
With the launch of the FS6000 scanner at Apapa Port, the Nigeria Customs Service is expected to further strengthen trade facilitation and provide a more efficient and technology-driven clearance process for port users and stakeholders.