Customs Holds Interactive Workshop to Boost Operations

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Zone ‘C’, hosted an interactive stakeholder workshop at its headquarters in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, 8 September 2026, to streamline customs procedures, enhance trade facilitation, and resolve operational bottlenecks within the Tinapa Free Trade Zone.

In a press statement signed by Zonal Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Customs Aondoakura Dzungwenen, on behalf of the Zonal Co-ordinator, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Pascal Chibuok, the Service highlighted its commitment to creating a transparent, predictable trading environment while protecting national economic security and revenue.

Representing Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi, Deputy Comptroller-General Constantine Dim, in charge of Excise, Free Trade Zones, and Industrial Incentives, emphasised the critical role free trade zones play in driving national economic growth. He urged participants to familiarise themselves with established guidelines to minimise disputes, delays, and sharp practices.

Speaking at the event, Assistant Comptroller-General Pascal Chibuoke, Zonal Coordinator for Zone ‘C’, described Tinapa as strategically vital to the economy of Cross River State and the broader nation, stressing that efficient procedures are key to attracting foreign investment.

During a technical session, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Dennis Ituma called on stakeholders to study Sections 134–143 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 alongside Tinapa’s establishing legislation. He outlined standard import and export documentation requirements, including properly designated bills of lading for Tinapa and adherence to approved business lines.

Addressing stakeholder concerns regarding delays in transfer orders, documentation discrepancies, and cargo escort issues, Customs leadership urged operators to provide concrete evidence, such as submission timestamps, to help identify exact failure points and hold responsible officers accountable.

The workshop concluded with a joint commitment between Customs officials, the Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), the Tinapa Zone Administrator, and licensed agents to improve compliance, strengthen communication, and restore the free trade zone to full economic productivity.