In recent years, one of the challenges bedeviling Nigerian ports is the issue of overtime cargoes. From Apapa to Tin-Can, and Onne Ports, sights of abandoned and overtime container boxes and vehicles, are conspicuous.
In terms of the implication of their presence at our sea ports, overtime cargoes threaten port efficiency through congestion. They also necessitate high cargo dwell time, and delay turnaround time of ships as vessels spend between 18 and 25 days waiting time, before discharging at the ports.
A recent report indicates that there are over 10,000 overtime cargoes worth billions of naira abandoned by importers last year with some of these cargoes being in the ports for between seven and 10 years having taken 30 per cent of port space, which invariably congests the various terminals at the ports due to lack of space.
Terminal operators and users of port services, who suffer incalculable economic losses as a result of ports congestion, have not relented in calling on the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, in particular, to wade in and arrest the situation.
Through on-the-spot auctions of overtime goods by the Customs, experts believe Nigerian sea ports would be decongested. Expectedly, the NCS, in hearkening to the demands of critical stakeholders, recently revamped its e-auction platform.
The move was geared towards fast-tracking the effective and transparent disposal of goods impounded, together with overtime cargoes. “This strategic move aligns with the guidelines outlined in the newly enacted Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, showcasing the agency’s dedication to efficiency and fairness.
“The new platform is an upgraded version of the previous portal designed to provide Nigerians with an equal opportunity to participate.
“Since its relaunch, the platform has recorded impressive results, including:
