NCS Unveils Digital Licensing Regime to Enhance Port Efficiency at AMJON’S Conference 

NCS Unveils Digital Licensing Regime to Enhance Port Efficiency at AMJON’S Conference.

Lucky Akra

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has introduced a new digital licensing and permit regime aimed at improving port efficiency, transparency, and trade facilitation across the country.

Speaking at the 2026 Annual Conference and Awards of the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON), the Public Relations Officer of the Lagos Free Trade Zone Command, CSC LA Abdullahi, described the initiative as a major reform designed to modernize trade processes and align Nigeria with global best practices.

The conference was themed,”Attaining Port Efficiency in the Face of Emerging Technology.”

Abdullahi said modern port efficiency extends beyond cargo handling to include automation, transparency, compliance integrity, and seamless stakeholder interaction. He noted that the reforms, driven by the leadership of the NCS, are expected to improve Nigeria’s competitiveness in international trade.

According to him, the previous manual licensing system was burdened by delays, administrative bottlenecks, and fraudulent practices that increased the cost of doing business.

“The transition to a fully automated system marks a significant shift toward efficiency and accountability,” he said.

The new regime is built around a centralized digital portal that allows end-to-end electronic processing of applications, renewals, approvals, and compliance monitoring.

Under the system, stakeholders can obtain permits such as import and export licenses, bonded terminal approvals, warehouse permits, and excise licenses without visiting Customs offices physically.

Abdullahi identified digital verification as one of the key features of the platform, explaining that it eliminates fake permits and guarantees the authenticity of submitted documents.

He added that licenses will now have a uniform annual validity period ending on December 31 to strengthen compliance and regulatory oversight.

The Customs spokesperson further disclosed that the system is integrated with major trade platforms, including Form M, the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR), authorized dealer banks, and the Single Window system. According to him, the integration will reduce duplication and improve coordination among regulatory agencies.

He said the reforms have already started improving port operations by enabling pre-arrival processing, reducing cargo clearance delays, and minimizing human interference in trade procedures.

Abdullahi also noted that improved data management under the new system would provide better visibility into trade activities, revenue streams, and compliance patterns.

Despite the gains, he acknowledged challenges such as digital literacy gaps among stakeholders, resistance to change, and the need for sustained awareness campaigns.

He stressed the importance of continuous stakeholder engagement, education, and policy clarity to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative.

The Customs official also called on maritime journalists to support the reform process by promoting accurate information and countering misinformation.

“Port efficiency begins with documentation integrity, compliance, and trust,” Abdullahi said, adding that embracing digital transformation remains critical to the future of Nigeria’s ports.