Trade Facilitation: How Comptroller Onyeka Brokered Peace with Stakeholders
… rakes in ₦116bn in revenue
By Nifemi Coker
As part of ongoing efforts to enhance trade facilitation and streamline Customs operations, the Customs Area Controller, Tin Can Island Port Customs Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, has engaged stakeholders in resolving complaints of multiple alerts on cargo clearance.
This, he said, is aimed at boosting efficiency while assuring stakeholders that alerts would now be issued solely by designated units based on verified intelligence and with his direct approval.
This engagement which centered around enhancing trade facilitation held at the command’s conference hall on February 4, 2025, bringing together key industry players to dialogue.
Addressing the gathering, Comptroller Onyeka acknowledged the frustration caused by multiple alerts on transactions noting that moving forward, specific units shall be designated to attend to specific tasks.
“Once an alert is raised, all other units must align with the issuing department for reconciliation before the goods are released. The Enforcement Unit will not place any alerts on consignments unless I personally authorize it.
“Our objective is clear: to create an environment where compliant traders experience seamless operations without unnecessary delays,” Onyeka declared.
The Customs chief reassured stakeholders that his administration remains committed to fostering a business-friendly atmosphere at Tin Can Island Port.
He emphasized that transparency, collaboration, and adherence to due process are central to achieving a more efficient cargo clearance system.
“For traders who declare goods correctly, pay the appropriate duties, and undergo necessary examinations, there will be no impediments. We are here to make business operations smoother, not more complicated,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Secretary, Customs Consultative Committee (CCC), Mr. Eugene Nweke, commended Comptroller Onyeka for his proactive approach in addressing this challenge that has since been a “stumbling block” to efficiency in trade facilitation.
“The issue of multiple alerts has long been a stumbling block in cargo clearance. Comptroller Onyeka’s decisive action ensures that only a single alert will be recognized per consignment, and it must adhere to due process. His leadership, integrity, and commitment to trade facilitation are highly commendable,” Nweke remarked.
Stakeholders in attendance expressed optimism that the reform will transform customs operations for better while pledging support for Onyeka’s administration.
Beyond operational reforms, the Tin Can Island Port Command set a financial milestone in January, generating a record-breaking ₦116.4 billion in revenue for the month of January .
This marks a significant increase from the ₦85 billion recorded in January 2024.
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