Mu’azu Addresses Manual Clearance Gaps with Sensitisation on Automated Overtime Cargo System
By Ibe Wada
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) in charge of Apapa Area Command, Comptroller of Customs Murtala Mu’azu, has taken steps to address manual clearance gaps by sensitising stakeholders on the automated overtime clearance system.
The programme, held in Apapa on Tuesday, 3 November 2026, was designed to enlighten both senior officers and key maritime industry players, including consignees and other port operators, to reduce approval delays and eliminate administrative bottlenecks affecting port processes.
Delivering his opening address, the CAC said the ongoing transition was necessary because the old paper-based approach required a lengthy process to secure final approval, making the trade process seem complicated.
“The determination of the duration of stay of cargo, as well as the compilation and referral to headquarters, were all done manually. But we realised that there were usually gaps in the processes, particularly between the period when these compilations were made and when decisions were taken,” he said.
Mu’azu explained that the digital solution will eliminate multiple submissions and paperwork delays in compilation. He noted that with this advancement, stakeholders no longer have to worry about uncertainty or prolonged processes, as clearance responsibility will no longer depend on repeated referrals.
“Before now, command officers might examine cargo that had stayed for 31 or 32 days and submit a report to headquarters. Before a decision was taken, the cargo might have moved into another category, thereby creating an issue with the appropriate level of clearance,” he said.
The CAC described the sensitisation programme as a vital tool to help Customs officers gain immediate knowledge on validating and approving overtime cargo clearance requests, adding that a similar engagement would soon be extended to other port users.
Mu’azu concluded the sensitisation programme by assuring participants that facilitators and the ICT team will always be available to provide technical guidance where needed, ensuring end-users have the clarity needed to resolve clearance difficulties.
