By Anthony Nwachukwu
Customs Area Controller of the Tin Can Island Port Command (TCIP), Compt. Frank Onyeka, has called on stakeholders to always declare their goods accurately through the proper channels of collection.
Compt. Onyeka, who spoke at a meeting with the executive committee of the Tincan Port chapter of the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), said the engagement is aimed at improved trade facilitation and efficient customs operations.
He emphasised that full and accurate declarations are essential in enhancing ease of doing business and facilitating smooth trade operations.
The controller noted that ensuring proper declaration of goods through customs processes does not only help in fostering transparency but also plays a critical role in combating illicit trade practices, reducing delays at the ports, and enhancing national revenue collection.
According to him, “proper declarations are the foundation of an efficient customs process. When stakeholders declare goods correctly, it enables us to streamline operations, reduce bottlenecks at the ports, and improve the overall experience for both businesses and consumers.”
The call comes as part of ongoing efforts by the NCS to strengthen relationships with stakeholders across various sectors, including importers, exporters, freight forwarders and Customs brokers. It is also in line with the NCS’ broader mission to create a transparent, fair and secure environment for international trade.
Compt. Onyeka further urged stakeholders to collaborate with the NCS in maintaining high standards of integrity, transparency and professionalism in their transactions.
He reassured all parties of the NCS’ commitment to continuous capacity building and the implementation of technology-driven solutions to making trade easier and more efficient.
“We must work together to ensure the declaration process is not only a statutory requirement but a tool for trade facilitation,” he added. “By enhancing compliance and promoting transparency, we are building a more robust, resilient and dynamic trade ecosystem.”
He stated that the NCS is committed to working with all relevant stakeholders to reduce the time and cost associated with trade operations while ensuring compliance with global best practices.
Meanwhile, the Secretary of ANLCA Board of Trustees, Taiwo Oyeniyi, told newsmen after the meeting that Compt. Onyeka is a revenue man and will work to collect the maximum revenue he could from those doing businesses at TCIP.
“To be able to achieve his own target, Compt. Onyeka has to block all revenue loopholes, but what we are appealing for is that, as a grassroots man, he should let us know if he sees something going wrong.”
“As a valuation officer here at TCIP, he performed creditable well, as he did at the Onne Command. He is going to do even better here and I appeal to all stakeholders to cooperate with him, and to make honest declarations.
“It is not all the persons who engage in the act of goods clearance that are customs licensed agents, but I would want the CAC to keep going constantly along this channel of dialogue with stakeholders and I pray he succeeds.”
