Nationwide Protest: Nigeria Customs Assures Continuous Operations at Apapa Port
In response to growing concerns over an anticipated nationwide protest against bad governance, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Apapa Port Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, has assured all port users that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) will maintain uninterrupted operations at Apapa Port.
During a stakeholders’ meeting earlier today – Tuesday, July 30, 2024, Comptroller Olomu emphasised the necessity of restoring confidence among importers, exporters, licensed customs agents, freight forwarders, haulage operators, and other port users.
He confirmed that NCS officers would be present at the port and its terminals to perform their duties and facilitate legitimate trade on all working days.
“Customs officers attached to the command at Apapa Port and all terminals under my watch will be available to discharge their usual functions and support the facilitation of all legitimate trade,” Olomu stated.
He also highlighted that the Customs Public Relations Office and other help desks would be operational to address inquiries and provide necessary information.
Reiterating the commitment to service, Olomu reminded the Apapa Port Community, including other government agencies, that customs officers would start work at 8 am on weekdays and would be available on weekends if necessary.
He expressed gratitude to compliant port users, describing them as “partners in progress,” and stressed the command’s dedication to maximising government revenue collection without compromising the integrity required for cargo examination.
The meeting also featured Commissioner of Police for Western Ports, CP Lanre Ishola, who assured that the police would ensure the respect of citizens’ rights during the protests.
Additionally, Apapa Port Manager Mr. Charles Okaga emphasised the port’s 24-hour operation and stated that the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) would encourage shipping companies and terminal operators to continue their services without imposing demurrage on cargoes delayed due to service disruptions.
Okaga assured stakeholders that the NPA would work to ensure seamless operations and mitigate any impact from the protests on port activities.
The press statement was issued by Usman Abubakar, Chief Superintendent of Customs and Customs Public Relations Officer for Apapa Port Command.
