Customs moves to deploy modern scanner at Apapa Port

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified preparations for the launch of its modern scanner facility at the Apapa Port in Lagos. The scanner, which is expected to enhance cargo examination and facilitate trade, is nearing deployment. As part of the final preparations, the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Information and Communication Technology […]

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified preparations for the launch of its modern scanner facility at the Apapa Port in Lagos.

The scanner, which is expected to enhance cargo examination and facilitate trade, is nearing deployment.

As part of the final preparations, the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), DCG Oluyomi Adebakin, recently visited the Apapa Port to inspect the scanning site.

During the visit, DCG Adebakin assessed the level of preparedness and readiness of the facility for the takeoff of the scanner.

He expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far and urged the contractors to complete the remaining work within the stipulated time frame.

The introduction of the scanner is part of the NCS’s efforts to modernize its operations and improve efficiency in cargo clearance.

The scanner will enable the Service to conduct faster and more accurate examination of cargoes, reducing the need for physical inspections and minimizing the risk of smuggling. Speaking during the inspection of the scanning site at the Jetty side of APMT, DCG Adebakin explained that the visit was aimed at ensuring adequate pre-arrangement and preparedness for a smooth transition to full scanning operations in line with international best practices.

“The reason for this visit is the pre-arrangement and preparation for the take-up of the FX6000 scanning machine at the Jetty side of APMT, so that we can have a seamless transition to a scanning system which aligns with international best practices,” she said.

On the readiness of the Service to deploy scanning and ICT solutions for effective cargo examination, the DCG stressed that preparedness is a tripartite responsibility involving the Nigeria Customs Service, APM Terminals, and the Trade Modernisation Project (TMP).

She disclosed that the level of readiness currently stands at about 80 percent, adding that the remaining critical components would be fully addressed before commissioning.

“From what we have seen, we can say that we are 80 percent ready. The remaining 20 percent is very vital, and I believe that prior to commissioning, it will be properly fixed. From the scanning examination and system analysis carried out, the system is good to go, and between now and the commissioning, we will achieve a proper take-up,” she noted.

Highlighting the benefits stakeholders should expect after commissioning, DCG Adebakin assured port users of seamless operations, faster cargo clearance, reduced demurrage, ease of doing business and a balanced approach between trade facilitation and compliance.

“The era of scattering people’s goods in the name of examination is over. This is a non-intrusive inspection system in line with international best practices. It is to the advantage of importers, consignees, terminal operators and the Service. The scanner has a throughput capacity of about 200 containers per hour,” she added.

The visit builds on the recent completion of the final simulation exercise conducted on November 6, 2025, under the supervision of the Customs Area Controller, Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, where the scanners were successfully tested for real-time synchronisation of scanned images with electronic declarations.

Comptroller Oshoba has reiterated the Command’s commitment to supporting the Service’s ICT-driven reforms and working closely with all stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to full scanner-based cargo examination at Apapa Port.