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The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has inched closer to achieving a fully paperless cargo clearance process following a successful test run of newly installed scanning equipment at APM Terminals, Apapa.
The comprehensive simulation, led by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, marked the final stage before full operational rollout of the scanners – a major step toward Customs’ digital transformation agenda.
According to Oshoba, the system is designed to eliminate manual paperwork by automatically linking scanned images with electronic declarations in real time. “We are now at the stage of 100 per cent readiness. Once a container is scanned and declared, the system automatically matches the data, analyses it, and approves release – no physical documents are needed,” he said.
He noted that the initiative would not only simplify clearance procedures but also enhance accuracy and security.
“The only time delays will occur is when discrepancies appear between declarations and scanned images. Compliance is now key because the system captures every detail,” Oshoba posited.
The Apapa Customs boss highlighted that the automation will significantly cut cargo dwell time and improve Nigeria’s standing on the World Customs Organization’s time-release index.
“With this digital approach, detecting contraband like arms or narcotics becomes easier, as even small concealed items show clearly on the scan,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Controller of the Scanner Unit, Umar Madugu, explained that the high-capacity scanners can process up to 200 containers per hour, drastically reducing the need for physical examination once fully deployed. Thursday’s exercise, he said, covered end-to-end testing from image capture and transmission to system resilience checks.
Mr. Niu Chao, Project Manager for Nuctech Company Ltd, the equipment provider, detailed how the system operates.
“All scanned images are transmitted to a central analysis hub in Abuja, stored in a cloud database, and simultaneously displayed for local review. Even if the network goes down, a backup system ensures uninterrupted operations,” he said.
Oshoba reaffirmed that the deployment aligns with the Customs Service’s ongoing modernization drive under the Comptroller-General, aimed at integrating Customs operations with real-time scanning for seamless trade facilitation.
With the test run concluded, the Command awaits final validation before going live. The digital clearance model is expected to shorten processing time, strengthen border control, and position Apapa Port as a benchmark for smart Customs operations in West Africa.
