
Customs, NRC Push for More Efficient Cargo Movement via Rail
The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) held a stakeholders’ meeting on Monday to improve cargo evacuation through rail transport .
Participants included representatives from the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) , clearing agents , and freight forwarders .
The meeting aligns with directives from the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi , to enhance logistics using multimodal transport systems .
Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu , said the goal was to “fine-tune the process” to support national trade objectives.
“When we make trade easier, it benefits everyone.”
He praised the presence and participation of all partners, calling it a “confidence booster” and a sign of shared commitment to better cargo logistics.
NRC Affirms Commitment to Smooth Operations
Representing the Nigeria Railway Corporation , Head of Operations Akin Oshinawo affirmed NRC’s long-standing partnership with Customs.
“We’ve always found a willing partner in the Comptroller and his team,” he said.
He added that the discussion supports the government’s broader agenda to revive and modernise Nigeria’s rail system.
“What we discussed today helps us move closer to efficient, nationwide rail-based cargo movement.”
Stakeholders Laud Meeting, Call for Nationwide Expansion
Stakeholders welcomed the initiative, saying it could help reduce import costs and boost overall logistics efficiency .
Dr. Osita Chukwu , National Coordinator of the Save Nigeria Freight Forwarders, Importers & Exporters Coalition , expressed hope that this model would expand beyond Lagos to cover the entire country.
“We hope this is not limited to one region but rolled out nationally, as done in other countries.”
Challenges Discussed, Solutions Proposed
The engagement included an interactive session where participants identified current challenges in rail cargo operations and proposed practical solutions.
These discussions focused on improving coordination, streamlining documentation, and ensuring faster clearance and delivery of goods.
This collaborative approach reflects growing efforts to modernise Nigeria’s trade infrastructure and support economic growth through better logistics.
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