NCS Apapa Command Strengthens Rail Cargo Collaboration to Boost Trade Facilitation

NCS Apapa Command Strengthens Rail Cargo Collaboration to Boost Trade Facilitation

In a strategic push to enhance trade facilitation and improve cargo movement, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, has intensified collaboration with key stakeholders to streamline rail cargo operations from the port.

The initiative was the focus of a high-level meeting held at the Command headquarters, where Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, Customs Area Controller (CAC), engaged with representatives from the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), clearing agents, freight forwarders, and other critical logistics stakeholders.

Comptroller Olomu noted that the effort aligns with the multimodal transport policy championed by the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, aimed at decongesting seaports and improving Nigeria’s overall trade logistics system.

“Revitalizing rail cargo operations is a key step towards transforming Apapa Port into a modern and competitive maritime gateway in West Africa,” Olomu said. “Beyond efficiency, this initiative underscores our commitment to a seamless, technology-driven, and collaborative cargo evacuation process.”

Participants at the meeting expressed strong support for the move, highlighting the potential of improved rail services to drastically reduce turnaround times, lower logistics costs, and enhance service delivery within the port system.

The interactive session addressed existing challenges facing rail-based cargo evacuation and yielded practical solutions to improve operations.

Akin Oshinowo, Head of Operations at the Nigerian Railway Corporation, praised the deepening partnership with Customs, stating that it aligns with the NRC’s operational targets and the federal government’s renewed hope agenda for rail transport revitalization.

“The long-standing collaboration between NRC and the Nigeria Customs Service continues to yield positive results. This renewed engagement further strengthens our joint resolve to reposition rail as a viable and cost-effective means of cargo movement nationwide,” Oshinowo said.

The reinforced synergy between Customs and logistics stakeholders marks a major step in unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s rail infrastructure, with expectations of delivering tangible benefits in trade facilitation, supply chain efficiency, and reduced logistics costs.