Physical checks of cargo at Apapa to stop soon—Customs

The Nigeria Customs Service is nearing the end of physical cargo examination at Apapa Port, following intensified preparations to deploy the FS6000 cargo scanner at APM Terminals, Lagos.

The development followed a working visit by the deputy comptroller-general in charge of ICT, Oluyomi Adebakin, to the scanning site at Apapa port. The command’s spokesperson, Isah Sulaiman, said this in a statement issued in Lagos.

Mr Sulaiman said the initiative was part of efforts to transition to a paperless, non-intrusive clearance system aligned with international best practices and improved trade facilitation.

He said the FS6000 scanner had completed final test runs and simulation exercises, signalling readiness for full deployment at the terminal.
Speaking during the inspection, Ms Adebakin said the visit was to assess pre-operational readiness and ensure a seamless transition to scanner-based cargo examination.

She described the deployment as “a critical step in modernising customs operations and improving efficiency at the nation’s busiest port”. Ms Adebakin said preparedness stood at about 80 per cent, adding that the remaining components required for full take-off were being addressed.

According to her, scanner readiness is a shared responsibility involving Customs, APM Terminals and the Trade Modernisation Project. She assured port users of faster clearance, reduced demurrage, ease of doing business and improved compliance with scanner deployment.
“The FS6000 scanner has a throughput capacity of about 200 containers per hour,” Ms Adebakin said, noting its suitability for high-volume operations. She added that non-intrusive inspection would eliminate delays and cargo damage associated with physical examinations while protecting revenue.

Apapa area controller, Emmanuel Oshoba, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to supporting ICT-driven reforms and stakeholder collaboration. Mr Oshoba said the scanner deployment underscored customs’ resolve to modernise port operations, strengthen trade facilitation and improve transparency at Apapa port. NAN