Apapa Customs Unveils Electronic Cargo Tracking System to Enhance Trade Efficiency and National Security
Lagos, Nigeria — November 5, 2025
The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially launched the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) — a cutting-edge digital solution designed to strengthen national security, boost revenue generation, and streamline trade operations across the country’s ports.
The pilot phase of the innovation was flagged off on Wednesday with a container consignment bound for the Kano/Jigawa Area Command, marking the first live deployment of the technology in Nigeria’s cargo monitoring operations.
Speaking at the launch held at the Apapa Port, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, described the ECTS as a major step forward in Customs’ modernization drive. He explained that the system allows real-time tracking of cargo from departure to destination using electronic seals and handheld monitoring devices, thereby ensuring transparency, eliminating diversion, and preventing tampering during transit.
“This initiative reduces the need for physical escorts and enhances efficiency, as officers can now monitor cargo movement electronically,” Comptroller Oshoba stated.
He praised the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his visionary leadership and commitment to reform, noting that the ECTS aligns with global standards already in use in several countries. As the current Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Adeniyi has championed automation and technological advancement to create a safer, more efficient trade environment in Nigeria.
The Head of B’Odogwu Implementation at the Apapa Command, Deputy Comptroller Aondona Christopher Fanyam, elaborated that containers under the ECTS remain securely sealed until they reach their final destination. He noted that the system employs three methods for authorized access:
- Remote unlocking through the central control system;
- Local access via handheld devices operated by trained officers; and
- Physical unlocking cards used at designated destinations.
Fanyam explained that these layers of security provide multiple safeguards against unauthorized interference, thereby preserving cargo integrity and preventing revenue loss.
Also speaking, the Team Leader of the Training Unit, Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) Rosemary Ebele Wenceslas, revealed that 12 officers drawn from the Rapid Response Unit of the Federal Operations Unit Zone A, Ikeja, and the Enforcement Team the Apapa Command have been trained for the pilot phase.
She said the officers received intensive technical training on the use of ECTS devices and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure seamless adoption and efficient operation.
“With the training completed, our officers are fully equipped to deploy this technology effectively, ensuring the pilot achieves its goal of enhanced cargo monitoring, improved trade facilitation, and strengthened national security,” she said.
The ECTS initiative represents another bold step by the Nigeria Customs Service toward digital transformation, aligning with its broader mission of facilitating trade, safeguarding borders, and optimizing revenue collection.
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