The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has defended its proposed implementation of the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN), assuring it will enhance trade security and improve the ease of doing business at Nigerian ports.

O.C. Orbih, the zone ‘A’ coordinator representing Bashir Adeniyi, Comptroller-General of Customs, explained this at a meeting with journalists on Thursday, stating that the system provides advance cargo information, enabling better threat assessment and targeted inspections.

The statement follows pushback from stakeholders citing legal issues and cost concerns surrounding the implementation of the ICTN.

In a formal petition addressed to President Bola Tinubu and members of the National Assembly, Lucky Amiwero, the national president of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), argued that the ICTN is not a service-based initiative and does not justify the fees imposed on imports and exports, adding that it lacks legal backing.

The Service, however, asserted that Section 28 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, grants it the authority to develop and maintain electronic cargo tracking systems.

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“The law provides a solid foundation for ICTN implementation, ensuring that all legal requirements are met,” it stated. “This is not just about technology adoption. It is about fundamentally transforming Nigeria’s maritime trade, making our ports more efficient, transparent, and competitive on the global stage.”

According to the spokesperson, the ICTN will enhance cargo tracking, faster manifest verification, and automated risk assessment, lower demurrage charges, and more predictable delivery schedules for businesses.

Aside from security, the ICTN is expected to simplify and accelerate port operations by allowing pre-arrival processing of cargo information. This, according to the Customs Service, will reduce documentation processing time and ensure seamless information flow between Customs and other stakeholders.

Recounting international success stories, the zone coordinator pointed to Ghana and Kenya as examples of countries that have benefited from ICTN.

“Ghana’s implementation since 2015 has improved cargo clearance efficiency and boosted revenue collection,” Orbih stated. “Similarly, Kenya’s adoption in 2014 has led to substantial reductions in cargo dwell time and enhanced operational efficiency.”

Similarly, Turkey and Brazil have leveraged ICTN to streamline operations, reducing the need for physical inspections without compromising security standards.

Addressing concerns over increased clearance costs, Customs acknowledged the need for a balanced fee structure. However, they argued that international evidence suggests these costs are often offset by savings from reduced delays, lower demurrage charges, and greater operational efficiency.

Customs defends ICTN, says cargo tracking will improve trade security and ease of doing business.jpg