Customs Pushes Forward with Apapa Port Scanner Deployment as DCG ICT Inspects Progress
Customs Pushes Forward with Apapa Port Scanner Deployment as DCG ICT Inspects Progress
By Success Okezie
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is making significant strides in deploying its newly installed FS6000 scanning machine at APM Terminals, Apapa, with Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of ICT, DCG Oluyomi Adebakin, leading an inspection visit on 22 December 2025. This move marks a crucial step towards achieving paperless cargo clearance, enhanced trade facilitation, and operational efficiency.
During her visit to the Jetty side scanning site, Adebakin emphasized that the inspection aimed to ensure a seamless transition to full scanning operations, aligning with international best practices. “The reason for this visit is the pre-arrangement and preparation for the take-up of the FX6000 scanning machine… so we can have a seamless transition to a scanning system,” she stated.
Adebakin stressed that preparedness is a joint effort involving NCS, APM Terminals, and the Trade Modernisation Project (TMP), with the current readiness level at 80%. The remaining 20% will be addressed before commissioning. Benefits of the scanner deployment include:
– Seamless operations
– Faster cargo clearance
– Reduced demurrage
– Ease of doing business
– A balanced approach to trade facilitation and compliance
“The era of scattering people’s goods in the name of examination is over. This is a non-intrusive inspection system in line with international best practices,” Adebakin declared. The scanner boasts a throughput capacity of approximately 200 containers per hour.
The visit follows the successful completion of a final simulation exercise on 6 November 2025, under the supervision of Apapa Area Command’s Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba. Oshoba reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to supporting NCS’s ICT-driven reforms and collaborating with stakeholders for a smooth transition to full scanner-based cargo examination at Apapa Port.
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