A group photograph of participants after the meeting.
Story by Dili Utomi.
Comptroller Frank Onyeka, the Customs Area Controller of Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has hit the ground running, the CAC has introduced key reforms to address the issue of multiple alerts, streamline operations, and enhance trade facilitation.
The reforms were made known during a critical stakeholders’ meeting held at the command’s conference hall on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. The engagement brought together government agencies, terminal operators, freight forwarders, importers, and customs agents to discuss trade facilitation, maritime activities, and improved service delivery.
During the meeting, Comptroller Onyeka addressed key operational bottlenecks, particularly the issue of multiple alerts, which had previously hindered smooth cargo clearance at the port. He emphasized that moving forward, alerts will only be issued by legitimate units such as the Valuation Department or the Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU), based strictly on intelligence and with his direct approval.
“Once there is an alert, all other units will key into it and reconcile with the issuing unit before the goods are released. Enforcement has no reason to place alerts on consignments unless authorised by me. Our goal is to ensure seamless operations where traders who declare goods appropriately, pay the correct duties, and perform necessary examinations face no undue delays,” Onyeka stated.
He reassured stakeholders that Tin-Can Island Port is committed to fostering a conducive business environment, adding that transparency and collaboration are vital to achieving trade facilitation. “We are here to make operations exceptionally easy for everyone. Traders who comply with the rules have nothing to fear. I have already started addressing the concerns raised during this meeting,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Tin Can Island Port Command (TCIP) broke the record for the generated revenue for the month of January, the Command made One hundred and sixteen billion, four hundred and twelve million, seven hundred and eighty five thousand, seven hundred and sixty six naira, twenty three Kobo (₦116,412,785,766.23) only as against the eighty five billion naira (₦85,000,000,000.00) that it made in the corresponding month of 2024. This figure is a testament to the avowed tenacity, intelligence and the interpersonal skills of the Command head, Comptroller Frank Onyeka.
While reacting to the development at the meeting, the Secretary of the Customs Consultative Committee (CCC), Mr. Eugene Nweke, commended Comptroller Onyeka for his proactive approach and commitment to resolving longstanding challenges. Nweke noted that Onyeka’s reforms align with the resolutions of the Comptroller General of Customs Conference held in Abuja in 2024, which focused on reducing bottlenecks at ports.
“The issue of multiple alerts has been a major impediment to smooth cargo clearance. Comptroller Onyeka has resolved this by ensuring only one alert will be recognised in the command, and it must follow due process. His openness, integrity, and commitment to trade facilitation are commendable,” Nweke said.
The CCC, comprising terminal operators, shippers, and other maritime stakeholders, expressed optimism about the reforms and pledged their support for Onyeka’s leadership.
The meeting ended on a positive note, with stakeholders praising the improved dialogue and Onyeka’s dedication to addressing their concerns. The Customs boss reiterated his commitment to fostering a better working relationship and ensuring the Tin-Can Island Port remains a hub for efficient and transparent trade operations.
For advertisement and more information, please contact us on 08027590195, 08035721540 or email us at greatalternativenigltd@gmail.com or send us messages on x @dn_utomi or on Instagram @utomidili.
