The Nigeria Customs has Listed 151 Overtime Containers, Vehicles for Condemnation At Lagos Ports
In an effort to further decongest the nation’s ports, the Nigeria Customs Service has issued a public notice, listing 151 overtime containers and vehicles domiciled at mostly Apapa port, and KLT port terminals in Lagos for court condemnation.
According to the public notice sighted by DAILY TREND, the service said the action is in line with the NCS Act 2023, following a motion of exparte with suit no: FHC/L/MISC/8262024 dated 28tth November, 2024.
Our correspondent noted that out of the 151 listed containers, 91 of them are domiciled in Apapa port, while the remaining 60 containers are located at KLT terminal.
Recall that the service had on Tuesday announced that it will commence the implementation of a 30-day deadline for cargo clearance at the ports.
According to the Customs, the set of guidelines would help address port congestion, streamline clearance processes and reduce disputes arising from the disposal of overtime cargo.
Pursuant to the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023, the Service is reinforcing the provisions that mandate imported consignments to be cleared within 30 days after the completion of discharge of the importing carrier or within a timeframe prescribed by the Service, as provided in Section 30(1).
“In addition, Section 149(1) empowers the Service to establish time limits for cargoes to leave customs territory,” Customs noted in a statement signed by Abdullahi Maiwada, Public Relations Officer.
“To enhance efficiency in cargo clearance, all consignments shall enjoy 30 days from the date of arrival at the port, free of overtime clearance encumbrances” it said
Cargo exceeding 30 days would be considered “overtime” but may still be cleared within an additional 30 days after application and approval by the relevant Customs Area Controller (CAC).
Where a consignment remains undeclared within 60 days, clearance would require approval from the Assistant Comptroller General/Zonal Coordinator upon application.
This clearance opportunity would be valid within 90 days from arrival. However, customs would commence disposal process for consignments not cleared within 90 days.
“It is important to note that without prejudice to the guidelines above, the Service reserves the right to initiate the disposal process, if necessary, following the initial 30-day grace period stipulated by the NCSA 2023,” it added.
The service further assured of a transparent and efficient cargo clearance process that prevents undue port congestion,
mitigates legal disputes associated with overtime cargo, and enhances overall trade facilitation.
It further encouraged stakeholders to comply with these regulations to facilitate smooth trade operations.
