ZAINAB JUNAID
The Customs Area Controller of the TinCan Island Port Command, TCIP, Comptroller Dera Nnadi has called for collaboration of relevant stakeholders in the industry to achieve smooth evacuation of cargoes from Seaports to the Hinterland and achieve seamless operations.
Speaking on the Roles of Nigeria Customs Service in the Evacuation of Cargoes from Seaport to the Hinterland at the Stakeholders sensitization summit organized by Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) in Lagos, on Thursday 8 August 2024, Comptroller Dera stated that active parties such as NCS, terminal operators, importers, exporters, shipping companies, freight forwarders, logistics providers, and regulatory bodies have vital roles to play in ensuring smooth and secure movement of cargoes from seaports to the hinterland.
He said strong collaboration between these parties will ensure smooth loading and unloading operations, and also facilitate the swift movement of cargoes through the port.
Comptroller Nnadi added that understanding and optimizing this strategy will not only contributes to the overall efficiency of the logistics sector in Nigeria but will enhance economic growth and trade efficiency in the Country.
Speaking further, the TinCan Command Boss listed inadequate Infrastructure, Inefficient Port Operations; Regulatory and Customs Delays; Limited Hinterland Connectivity; High Volume of Traffic; Security Issues among others as challenges of Port congestion in the country.
He equally highlighted impacts of Port Congestion to include- increased operational costs for shipping companies due to longer waiting times and higher demurrage charges; Reduced Trade Competitiveness; Loss of Perishable Goods among others.
The CAC further informed that to mitigate Port Congestion in the Country, there is need to invest in modernizing and expanding port infrastructure.
Other ways of addressing this salient issues according to him includes-“Implementing best practices in port management, such as adopting automated systems for cargo handling and clearance; Simplifying and harmonizing customs procedures, leveraging technology for electronic documentation and tracking, and reducing bureaucratic red tape can expedite cargo clearance and reduce dwell times.
“Improving transportation networks that connect ports to the hinterland; Capacity Planning and Management; Encouraging collaborations between the public and private sectors can bring in much-needed investment and expertise”.
