The extension, which applies to cargo left uncleared at ports and terminals, is part of Customs’ ongoing reform to streamline operations, promote trade facilitation, and reduce the bottlenecks that have long hampered cargo evacuation.
According to the Service, the decision followed extensive consultations with port operators, freight forwarders, and other key stakeholders in the maritime sector. The initiative is expected to give importers and agents more time to process documentation, settle duty payments, and clear goods before they are classified as “overtime cargo.”
By stretching the automation timeline from its previous limit to 120 days, Customs said it hopes to decongest ports, reduce demurrage costs, and boost trade competitiveness in line with global best practices.
Maritime stakeholders have hailed the move as a welcome relief, noting that delays in cargo clearance have been a major factor driving up the cost of doing business in Nigeria. Industry operators also believe that the measure will strengthen Customs’ modernization drive and ensure smoother operations at the ports.
The Service emphasized that it remains committed to leveraging technology to improve transparency, efficiency, and accountability across the nation’s borders.
