In an ongoing effort to strengthen stakeholder engagement, enhance trade facilitation, and ensure efficient Customs operations, the Customs Area Controller of the Tin Can Island Port Command (TCIP), Comptroller Frank Onyeka, has urged stakeholders to accurately declare their goods through the appropriate channels.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting with the Executive Members of the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANALCA), Tin Can Port Chapter, on Wednesday, Comptroller Onyeka emphasized that full and accurate declarations are crucial for improving the ease of doing business and facilitating seamless trade operations.
He further noted that proper goods declaration not only promotes transparency but also plays a vital role in curbing illicit trade, minimizing port delays, and boosting national revenue collection.
Comptroller Onyeka emphasized that “Proper declarations are the foundation of an efficient customs process. When stakeholders declare goods correctly, it enables us to streamline operations, reduce bottlenecks at the ports, and enhance the overall experience for both businesses and consumers.”
This call is part of the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with stakeholders, including importers, exporters, freight forwarders, and customs brokers. It also aligns with the NCS’s broader mission to foster a transparent, fair, and secure international trade environment.
Comptroller Onyeka further urged stakeholders to collaborate with the NCS in upholding high standards of integrity, transparency, and professionalism in their transactions. He reassured all parties that the NCS remains committed to continuous capacity building and implementing technology-driven solutions to enhance trade efficiency.
“We must work together to ensure that the declaration process is not just a statutory requirement but a key tool for trade facilitation. By enhancing compliance and promoting transparency, we are building a stronger, more resilient, and dynamic trade ecosystem,” he added.
The NCS remains dedicated to working with all relevant stakeholders to minimize the time and cost associated with trade operations while ensuring compliance with global best practices.
The meeting, which lasted over an hour and a half, saw members of the Association expressing satisfaction with the CAC’s open-door policy. Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the Board of Trustees (BOT) Secretary of the Association, Mr. Taiwo Oyeniyi, acknowledged the CAC’s approach to revenue collection.
“When a new leader takes charge, they bring their own style. The CAC of TCIP is focused on revenue generation, and his responsibility is to ensure maximum revenue collection from businesses operating here. Customs generated a total of ₦6.1 trillion last year, and the target for this year is ₦12 trillion. To achieve this, Comptroller Onyeka must plug all revenue loopholes. However, we appeal to him that if he notices any issues, he should address them transparently, as he has always been known to do.
“For stakeholders, I advise that if you genuinely need assistance, you should feel confident to approach Comptroller Onyeka and present your concerns openly.”
He further praised the CAC’s previous achievements, stating, “He was a valuation officer here at TCIP and performed excellently, just as he did at Onne Command. I am confident he will achieve even greater success in this role. I encourage all stakeholders to cooperate with him and ensure honest declarations. Not everyone involved in goods clearance is a licensed customs agent, but I urge the CAC to maintain continuous dialogue with stakeholders. I wish him success in his tenure,” Mr. Oyeniyi concluded.