In a bid to enhance trade facilitation and regulatory compliance, the newly appointed Customs Area Controller of the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone Command, Comptroller Aliyu Mohammed Alkali, has called for stronger collaboration among key stakeholders operating within the Zone.
During a strategic engagement with government agencies, enterprises, shipping firms, and clearing associations, Comptroller Alkali emphasized the importance of a seamless operational environment to attract investment and boost economic activities. Among the government agencies present were the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone Authority (OGFTZA), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigeria Police Force, Eastern Ports Command, and the Nigeria Immigration Service Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone Command.
Top industry players such as INTELS, Notore Petrochemical Company, Indorama Petrochemical Company, and Total Energies were also represented, alongside shipping giants OMT and Blue Star Shipping Company. Freight forwarding firms like PrimePort and Quicka, as well as clearing associations including the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) and the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON), participated in the discussions.
In his address, Comptroller Alkali underscored the critical need for compliance with trade regulations, specifically instructing all enterprises and freight forwarders to finalize their SGD(s) on pre-release approval within 14 days. He highlighted that timely compliance would enable the Command to maintain accurate trade records while ensuring an efficient and business-friendly environment.
Reaffirming the commitment of OGFTZA to the Command’s objectives, Mr. Adekunle Ajayi, General Manager of Operations at OGFTZA, assured Comptroller Alkali of full cooperation in facilitating smooth operations within the Zone.
Additionally, the Customs boss engaged stakeholders in an open dialogue, addressing key concerns and proposing solutions to operational challenges. His proactive stance signals a renewed push for regulatory efficiency, enhanced service delivery, and increased economic contributions from the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone to Nigeria’s economy.
With this strengthened collaboration, Comptroller Alkali is poised to drive greater investment, compliance, and economic expansion within the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone.
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