Customs Launches Pilot Electronic Cargo Tracking System at PTML

By Adedapo Adesanya

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched the pilot phase of its Management Information System (MIS) and Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) at the PTML Area Command, Lagos, as it pushes its modernisation drive aimed at enhancing trade facilitation, operational efficiency and service delivery.

The pilot launch was led by the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of ICT/Modernisation, Mrs Oluyomi Adebakin, who represented the Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr Adewale Adeniyi.

She commended the PTML Area Command for its exceptional level of preparedness, describing its readiness as a testament to the collaborative efforts and commitment of officers towards the successful implementation of the initiative.

“Modernisation and digitalisation are no longer optional. As the lead agency in border management, the Nigeria Customs Service cannot afford to lag. If we don’t move with the cloud, we will be left behind. This pilot phase reflects our commitment to building a modern Customs Service that meets global standards,” she said.

In his welcome address, the Acting Customs Area Controller, PTML Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Nura Miko, said the command continues to prioritise trade facilitation while maintaining a balance with revenue generation and national security.

He disclosed that PTML, which currently achieves cargo clearance within two hours, is working towards reducing the clearance time to one hour through digital innovation and improved operational processes.

“At PTML, trade facilitation remains our priority. Having achieved a two-hour cargo clearance time, we are now working towards reducing it to one hour through the deployment of these digital platforms and continuous process improvements,” Mr Miko said.

The event featured a live demonstration of the MIS and ECTS by the Service’s ICT Unit, which explained that the in-house developed applications are highly scalable and designed to support indigenous technology development.

The team showcased key modules, including the Duty Roster, Internal Roster, File Tracker and Posting Management, while disclosing that officer onboarding, user training and deployment of the Electronic Cargo Tracking System are already underway as part of the pilot phase.