Customs: We’ve Saved Nigeria Billions of Naira

The Nigerian Customs Service claims to have saved the nation billions of Naira. Learn more about their efforts and the financial impact on the economy.

By fulfilling its statutory obligations and duties, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) claims to have spared Nigeria from expending billions of Naira.

During his inaugural visit to Kaduna, Pius Akutah, the Executive Secretary of NSC, communicated that he intended to engage with both the council’s personnel and members of the State Shippers Association. This statement was made on Sunday.

He believed that the council’s dispute resolution mechanism proved to be efficient, leading to strengthened operations.

The council was adept at managing and settling claims from proprietors, including but not limited to cargo losses and associated fees, as noted by Akutah.

The observation was made that improving rail transportation, as initiated by the period of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, would greatly enhance an efficient method for transporting cargo from seaports to inland locations.

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According to Akutah, transporting cargoes from the hinterland to the seaport is best done through rail transportation due to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

He remembered that there was an agreement signed between the council and Nigerian Railways Corporation (NRC) with regards to enriching railway transport integration in ports.

Akutah highlighted that the partnership was geared towards addressing issues pertaining to rail transportation expenses and advocating for utilizing railway systems as a more effective means of transporting goods.

According to the executive secretary, ongoing discussions are being held by the Federal Government regarding repairing and utilizing solely for cargo movements, the old light gauge.

He emphasized the significance of constructing rail lines, despite their high cost. He praised initiatives by the Federal Government aimed at renovating them.

He emphasized the significance of the shippers association in the council’s operations, stating that they safeguard their interests to strengthen themselves and foster trade activities within the nation.

Akutah stated that they are endeavoring to understand the structure of the shippers association’s nationwide organization in order for them to sustain their commendable efforts.

He pointed out that the Cargo Defence Fund (CDF) offers importers and exporters a range of legal and technical assistance, such as litigation financing, international legal representation, and guidance on risk management.

Akutah commented on the Bill proposing to abolish the NSC Act and replace it with the Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill along with other related matters. He stated that this legislation intends to provide greater authority for effectively regulating the shipping industry, safeguarding shippers’ interests, and stimulating economic development.

He stated that if the proposed legislation is passed, it would significantly enhance transparency, accountability and efficiency in the sector.