…as FG Partners WCO, Others to Launch Time Release Study in TCIP
Just as World Customs Organization(WCO) was pleased to support Nigeria with the launch of Time Release Study in TinCan Island Port, Lagos, the Secretary General of the Organization, Ian Saunders has urged Stakeholders, relevant actors in the maritime industry to ultimately ensure the continuity of the methodology.
Speaking during the launching ceremony of WCO assisted Time Release Study scoping mission for Nigeria on Thursday, February 8, 2024, Saunders expressed that though WCO provides substantial assistance to members to aid them in implementing the organisations instrument and guidance, it would be in the interest of Nigeria to maintain certain course and own the effort of ensuring TRS Continuity.
The implementation support helps members to realize the vision of Harmonizing effective and efficient customs operations that enables trade and supply chain security.
According to him, “TRS launch in TCIP is an output of accelerated trade facilitation program made possible through sponsorship by the United Kingdom. The programme is focused on aiding Customs Administrations to implement the world organization trade facilitation programme agreement and as part of the undertaking, we have forged a multi partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service to address a number of technical disciplines at the heart of realising greater border operations as well as organizational development issues like integrity and leadership”.
The Secretary General who was pleased with NCS for embracing this effort said TRS concept is a means of engaging range of partners that can contribute to success, especially in implementing procedures that are consistent with a binding obligations in the trade facilitation agreement.
“Customs is an essential player in making this happen but it is by no means the only one, that is why the involvement of key members of political directorate, National trade Facilitation Committee, other government agencies, private sector and many others is so important.
“The facilitation of the legitimate trade isn’t just the abstract, concept or goal in itself, it is a means of economic competitiveness, making greater opportunities available to every sector and size by making the requirements of international trade more understandable, transparent, less costly and more manageable. With better trade facilitation, companies that might have assured expanding their business internationally have a new reason to reconsider and with everyone that does, Nigeria’s economy is potentially stronger”.
“The time release study would allow you to gather specific information to support your ambition. It provides baseline measurement of a current performance of cargo clearance procedures, and it is the only tool that can generate an objective quantitative baseline. With this specificity, comes the ability to understand the causes and delays and develop solutions that can make border transactions faster and easier.
“With data comes the ability to focus conversations with relevant actors to address root causes and come up with sustainable solutions. TRS methodology has proven it’s value over the years with clear examples from every corner of the globe. The concept isn’t a single activity, it is an undertaking whose results are realized with members measuring the impact of reform over time and when they conduct studies and multiple border clearance locations. This is the kind of commitment I hope to see from Nigeria. It’s visible when you gather but it requires you to maintain a certain course. One of your advantages is strong leadership, clear understanding, and aspiration to see international trade playing it’s due role in realising economic growth that enables a more safe, Prosperous and equitable society,” he emphasized.
Meanwhile, Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR restated the Service commitment to improving Customs Operations based on the outcomes of the WCO assisted Time Release Study (TRS) Scoping Mission for Nigeria.
His words, “The launch of the TRS in Lagos underscored our commitment to improving customs operations and trade facilitation in Nigeria. In addition to TRS, the NCS is deploying the AEO program, Advanced Ruling, and establishing a Customs Laboratory as part of its ongoing efforts to facilitate trade and improve government revenue”.
“The 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.
“These initiatives are supported by the WCO, further emphasizing our dedication to enhancing trade efficiency and promoting economic growth and national development through collaboration, innovation, and strategic measures.” He stated.
Launching the TRS, the Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, represented by the permanent secretary, Lydia Jafiya, noted that the TRS falls aligns with the Federal Government’s renewed hope agenda, “which demonstrates the president’s commitment to unleashing full economic potential to and among other states. Redefining best approaches to create the enabling environment for businesses in addition to providing excellent services for economic operations”.
On her part, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite, opined that trade facilitation will enhance trade volume and lead to revenue generation.
“I implore you to redouble your efforts in focusing on trade facilitation. This is because when you facilitate trade, you’re enhancing our trade volume and making our nation more competitive, and then we can generate more revenue without increasing our levies”. She said.
The event, which was held in Lagos, had in attendance the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Doris Uzoka-Anite, Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Lydia Jafiya, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola represented by the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Barrister Pius Akutah, DG NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, Captains of Industries, among other Stakeholders.
