Customs ramps up scanner deployment ahead of Apapa Port take-off

By Godwin Oritse

Ahead of the launch of its digital cargo operations, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified preparations for the official commencement of the newly installed FS6000 scanning machine at APM Terminals, Apapa.

The Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of ICT, DCG Oluyomi Adebakin, inspected the facility on Monday.

The visit forms part of the build-up to the deployment of the scanners, which have recently completed final test runs and simulation exercises at the terminal, in furtherance of the Service’s drive towards paperless cargo clearance, enhanced trade facilitation and improved operational efficiency.

Speaking during the inspection of the scanning site at the jetty side of APM Terminals, DCG Adebakin said the visit was to ensure adequate pre-deployment arrangements and overall preparedness for a seamless 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-off of the FS6000 scanning machine at the jetty side of APMT, so that we can have a seamless transition to a scanning system that 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 per cent, adding that the remaining critical components would be fully addressed before commissioning.

“From what we have seen, we can say that we are 80 per cent ready. The remaining 20 per cent 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 commissioning, we will achieve a proper take-off,” 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, during which 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.

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