The Nigeria Customs Service has commenced the automation of its licences and permits processes in a move aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and revenue generation.
The initiative was unveiled at a zonal sensitisation programme held at the Customs Training College in Ikeja, Lagos.
In her opening remarks, Comptroller NJ Anozie described the automation of the process for acquiring and renewing licences and permits as another milestone in the Service’s innovation-driven modernisation agenda.
She said the reform aligns with the three-point agenda of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, which focuses on consolidation, collaboration and innovation.
Anozie explained that the automated system would enable importers, clearing agents and other stakeholders to apply for and renew licences and permits from the comfort of their offices or homes, eliminating the need for physical visits to Customs headquarters.
According to her, the new system will reduce the cost of doing business, minimise movement risks, save time and curb fraudulent practices, as fake documents uploaded to the platform would be automatically rejected.
She added that automation would also enhance revenue generation, noting that every licence and permit processed contributes directly to government earnings.
Delivering the keynote address as Special Guest of Honour, the Zonal Coordinator, Zone ‘A’, Assistant Comptroller-General Mohammed Babandede, said the initiative marks a new chapter in service delivery.
Babandede said the full automation of licences and permits was approved to address long-standing concerns about delays, paperwork and manual bottlenecks in the system.
He noted that stakeholders would now be able to track applications in real time, ensuring a fair, consistent and transparent process.
Describing Lagos as the commercial heartbeat of Nigeria and Zone ‘A’ as the most economically active zone, he stressed the importance of getting the implementation right.
The Customs Service assured officers and stakeholders of adequate training and support, including the distribution of handbooks and step-by-step guides to ensure a smooth transition to the new system.
The Service also called on members of the media to support the dissemination of information on the automation process to ensure widespread awareness and adoption.
