By Omenihu Alfred fibmn
Endeavouring to boost Nigeria’s trade potential and economic advancement, Chief Amb. Dr Afam Chukwuma, Deputy National President of NAGAFF and CEO of International Supply Chain Systems Limited, while addressing maritime stakeholders at the Congress of Nigerian Maritime Media Practitioners (CONMMEP) Monthly Roundtable on Thursday, postulated that, a 24-hour cargo clearance system in Nigeria is entirely feasible and possible.
Chief Chukwuma reiterated his belief in the potential for a 24-hour cargo clearance system.His remarks reflect a strong commitment to improving Nigeria’s maritime logistics and enhancing the nation’s economic landscape.
“Achieving 24 hours cargo clearance is not a rocket science. We need to make it work no matter what it takes.”
While no specific African countries are documented to have a guaranteed “one-day” cargo clearance, Rwanda has made significant progress with its electronic single window system, and the introduction of systems like SIGMAT and ASYCUDA has reduced clearance times in countries like Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and The Gambia, aiming to achieve this goal. These efforts focus on improving efficiency through digitalization and cross-agency data sharing to expedite the clearance process. Other African countries use the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) or similar systems for pre-arrival reporting, which aims to streamline the process and can reduce clearance times significantly. Countries that require an ECTN include Angola, Benin, Cameroon, and Ghana, among others.
Speaking at the event, themed “Empowering Trade, Enhancing Growth,” which brought together a diverse group of media professionals, maritime stakeholders, policymakers, and development advocates to explore strategic pathways for enhancing the country’s maritime sector. Dr Chukwuma praised the Nigeria Customs Service for its pioneering digital processes, stating, “Nigeria Customs Service remains the best government agency when it comes to electronics and digitalized processes.” He highlighted the effective integration of the Customs system, which allows real-time monitoring of revenue across commands, showcasing the agency’s commitment to modernization. However, he acknowledged the teething problems associated with the recently introduced B’Odogwu platform, but expressed optimism and enthusiasm about its future, urging stakeholders to support the initiative. “We need to be patient,” he opined.
The outspoken maritime Giant also addressed the reintroduction of the Freight on Board (FoB) policy, suggesting that its implementation should be delayed until the benefits of B’Odogwu are realized. He urged Customs to consider provisional releases to ease the financial strain on freight forwarders and importers, advocating for a grace period of 21 days to mitigate demurrage charges.
Furthermore, Chief Chukwuma called for enhanced training among freight forwarders and a shift towards a fully automated clearing system. He argued that automation would alleviate operational challenges and reduce financial burdens on importers and their agents.
In his vote of appreciation on behalf of the association, the president of Conmmep, Ccomrade Udochukwu Onyeka re-afirmed CONMMEP’s commitment to policy advocacy and narratives that support a thriving maritime economy. The Congress applauded Dr. Chukwuma for his leadership and vision in promoting national development through trade empowerment, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in driving economic growth and advancement in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
