TUE, JAN 16 2024-theGBJournal|A pivotal strategic meeting was held at the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy on Monday to deliberate and actualize initiatives that would not only open up Nigerian seaports but also foster seamless cooperation and trade and facilitation.
A key focal point of discussion held between the top officials Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and the Nigeria Customs Service was the strategic integration of the Non-Intrusive Inspection Technology (NIIT) to bolster operational efficiency in Nigerian Seaports.
Among the key resolutions reached-
-Priority on Scanning over Physical Examination:
Acknowledging the pivotal role of NIIT in actively decongesting ports, the meeting entrusted the Comptroller General of Customs with the mandate to champion and prioritize cargo scanning over traditional physical examination methods.
-Repair and Utilization of Scanners
Immediate action was endorsed to rectify and optimize all existing scanners at prominent ports such as Apapa, Tincan Island, Onne, and PTML. Simultaneously, the existing mobile scanners will be strategically deployed to facilitate expeditious cargo inspections.
-Rail Freight to Inland Containers Depot/Dry Ports
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) pledged continued commitment to freight cargoes to Inland container depots/dry ports, a strategic move to alleviate congestion at major ports. Plans were unveiled for the efficient evacuation of containers from Port Harcourt to Aba, with future extensions envisaged for Onne Port.
-Bypassing Fixed Scanner during Rail Track Construction
Against the backdrop of rail track construction, the NRC concurred on a pragmatic approach by agreeing to bypass the fixed scanner at Apapa. This ensures the unhindered progression of scanning process during crucial infrastructure development.
-Public-Private Partnerships for Scanning Installation and Maintenance
The meeting advocated for exploring Public-Private Partnerships to oversee the installation and maintenance of scanning technology. This collaborative model aims to sustain efficiency and foster innovation in cargo inspection processes.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy: Gboyega Oyetola, Minister of Transportation: Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, Comptroller General of Customs: Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR as well as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) attended the meeting with Fidet Okhiria appearing as Virtual Attendee.
The officials at the meeting said the collaborative synergy witnessed in the meeting underscores the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian government to cultivate a conducive and efficient trade environment.
”The anticipated implementation of these resolutions is poised to positively impact port decongestion, trade facilitation, and overall operational efficiency and competitiveness,” they add.
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