The Nigeria Customs Service, Zone C, Port Harcourt, Rivers state says it has concluded a one day sensitization workshop for Clearing Agents and Bonded Terminal Operators in the Zone.
Our Correspondent reports that the event which took place Thursday at the Area 11, Customs command Onne, witnessed the converging of the major stakeholders in the maritime business including the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Bonded Terminal Operators, members of the National Association of Government Approved Frieght Forwarders (NAGAFF), APFFLON among others and the workshop was centered on the Customs clearance procedures, Trade facilitation, Revenue generation, Compliance and enforcement as well as the need to abhor Smuggling.
Speaking on the objectives of the event, Comptroller General of Customs BA Adeniyi MFR, represented by the  Zonal Coordinator, Customs Zone C Port Harcourt ACG, OC Orbih said  “The Nigeria Customs Service has always been committed to enhancing service delivery and facilitating trade, and today’s workshop is a significant step in that direction.”
Insisting that “This gathering provides us with a unique opportunity to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and strengthen our collaboration to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our operations.”
He however, extended his gratitude to the organizers, facilitators, and coordinators for their dedication and hard work in making the workshop a reality even as he noted that their efforts were truly appreciated.
Continuing, the CGC said, “Allow me to acknowledge the presence of our esteemed dignitaries here today. Your support and commitment to the goals of the Nigeria Customs Service are invaluable.” Adding that the agenda for the workshop was packed with insightful sessions that would cover various aspects of customs operations, trade facilitation, and compliance promising that participants  would  hear from experienced officers and experts who would share their knowledge and provide guidance on best practices even as he encouraged  everyone to actively participate, ask questions, and share experiences. Noting that, “Your contributions are vital to the success of this workshop and to the continuous improvement of our services.”
He concluded by saying “I would like to reiterate the Nigeria Customs Service commitment to facilitating trade, ensuring compliance, and improving service delivery vowing that “together, we can achieve these goals and contribute to the economic growth and development of our nation.
Earlier in his remarks, Customs Area controller, Area 1 Command Port Harcourt, Comptroller YM Hashim has expressed satisfaction with the organizers and facilitators of the workshop insisting it was aimed at promoting improved service delivery and trade facilitation in the zone, noting that the  workshop serves as an invaluable platform for stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions, share insights, and address the challenges the maritime business is facing in a rapidly evolving trade landscape.
He said “Our role as Customs officials and industry stakeholders is crucial in fostering a secure and streamlined process that benefits not only our economy but also enhances our international trade relations.”
Continuing  he posited “Today, we will delve into key topics that are vital for your operations—ranging from regulatory updates and compliance requirements to best practices for managing bonded terminals. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of Customs regulations effectively. “
“We are in a period of transformation, with advancements in technology and regulatory frameworks requiring us to adapt and innovate continually. Your role as Customs license agents and bonded terminal operators is pivotal in ensuring that we meet these challenges head-on.”
“I encourage each of you to actively participate in today’s sessions, share your experiences, and ask questions. Let us foster an environment of collaboration and open dialogue, as your insights are invaluable to our collective progress.
“I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR for his unwavering commitment to ensuring that trade is facilitated effectively in Nigeria. His leadership has brought about significant improvements in service delivery and has positioned the Nigeria Customs Service as a critical enabler of trade and economic development.”
He added “I also want to acknowledge the Comptroller License and Permit for this laudable initiative. The organization of this workshop is timely and essential as it aims to strengthen the collaboration between Nigeria Customs Service, Customs Representatives and Bonded Terminal Operators for more efficient operations.”
The Bonded Terminal Operator and the group managing Director of Prestige Associates, Nig Ltd Deacon Chinedu Ikenga lauded the Customs management for the thoughtful event.
He described it as one of its kind even as he enjoined all the stakeholders in the maritime business chain to key into what he says, is a laudable opportunity for a seamless clearing and Bonded Terminal operations.
Deacon Ikenga, a Maritime expert, and Secretary General Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Onne Seaport Chapter bemoaned what he described as a collapse in the entire administrative system in Nigeria.
He said it is not only in the Customs but cut across the various strata of the government. He added the problem is not only in making laws but their implementation. If you make a law, you have to enforce it and with that, you can sanitize the whole system. “
On the proliferation of arms and ammunition in the country, he canvassed for more collaboration and synergy between Nigeria and foreign countries especially where these arms and ammunition are imported into the country, saying “the importation of such dangerous goods can be stopped right from the country of its origin if there is a proper collaboration.”
On the clamour by the Frieght Forwarders for a certain percentage to be paid to them, Ikenga opinioned that such demand was in order as clearing agents share in the revenue generation for the country.
The workshop featured such topics as the overall view of the role of Nigeria Customs Service in Trade facilitation, the role of Customs License Representatives and Bonded Terminal Operators, Compliance and Enforcement among others.
There was also question and answer section. Participants at the workshop include the organizers and facilitators, Comptroller License and Permit Headquarters, Comptroller F Fajana, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (special duties), Dalhatu Abubakar, Customs intelligence unit, Csc, ME Gomina, SC A Onuka among others.
In his vote of thanks, the Customs Area Controller, Onne customs command Area 11, Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, represented by the DC Administration, Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Chidi Nwokorie, thanked   the participants urging them to always seek for additional knowledge insisting that such would keep the stakeholders in a good stead in carrying out their operations.
He also eulogized the comptroller General of Customs, BA Adeniyi MFR for such a thoughtful programme maintaining that his style of leadership has greatly improved both the Customs operations in the areas of revenue generation, trade facilitation, anti smuggling and more importantly in collaboration and synergies with other stakeholders.
By Bon Peters
Port Harcourt, Rivers State
