PTML Customs Command Targets One-Hour Cargo Clearance, Secures Approval for Pharmaceuticals Imports
The Port Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has set an ambitious target to achieve a one-hour clearance for Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) cargo, aiming to surpass its existing two-hour record.
This commitment was disclosed by the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of PTML Command, Comptroller Tenny Mankini Daniya, MNiA, during the International Customs Day (ICD) celebration in Lagos.
Comptroller Daniya emphasised that the successful execution of this target depends solely on the compliance of importers and their agents.
He noted that with sincere declarations, prompt duty payments, and readiness for exit procedures, the command is fully capable of clearing automobile cargoes within one hour.
“All that is needed is compliance. If importers and their agents adhere to proper procedures, we can achieve this milestone seamlessly,” he assured.
In a significant development, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has granted PTML Terminal approval for the importation of pharmaceutical products.
Comptroller Daniya attributed this approval to the terminal’s robust security measures and transparent operations, reinforcing its credibility as a secure and efficient hub for international trade.
Acknowledging private sector contributions to trade facilitation, Comptroller Daniya commended Grimaldi Management for its unwavering commitment to operational efficiency.
He particularly lauded the company’s recent commencement of shipping services from Lagos to Shanghai, China, describing it as a welcome development that should be sustained through legitimate trade and shipping activities.
Reflecting on the 2025 theme of International Customs Day – “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity”, Daniya reiterated the NCS’s dedication to modernisation, revenue collection, and trade facilitation.
“As you all know, this command is playing a piloting role in the reorganisation of the customs modernisation project, and we are already recording great successes,” he stated.
He further assured that 2025 would witness even greater improvements, urging stakeholders to sustain their support for the NCS’s modernisation drive.
“Under the leadership of our dynamic Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, we have prioritised stakeholder relationships to build on past successes. I deeply appreciate the support and understanding of all stakeholders as we contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth,” Daniya noted.
The CAC reaffirmed that the command remains steadfast in its mandate to maximise revenue collection, safeguard national security, and facilitate legitimate trade.
He encouraged port users to take advantage of the dispute resolution desks and trade facilitation structures, which remain fully operational.
“For 2025, we shall improve on our celebrated two-hour clearance time and ensure port users enjoy the best customs experience at PTML. Our dispute resolution desks are active, and as CAC, I maintain an open-door policy. Feel free to reach out to me on any matter requiring my input,” he declared.
Daniya also urged collective support for the B’Odogwu Programme, which is currently being piloted at PTML, assuring that the command is committed to addressing its initial challenges.
As part of the International Customs Day celebrations, Daniya reminded officers of their oath of patriotism, urging them to remain dedicated to their duties as enshrined in the national anthem and pledge.
“Today’s celebration is a global event and should serve as a reminder of our responsibilities to the nation. Together, we must work towards the success of customs modernisation while upholding efficiency, security, and prosperity,” he concluded.
This announcement marks a new chapter for PTML Command as it strives to set new efficiency benchmarks in cargo clearance.
