Apapa Customs Command Unveils 200-Container-per-Hour Scanners

 — Comptroller Oshoba Rallies Stakeholders to Join AEO Scheme for Faster, Smarter Port Operations

The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba

The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is set to enter a new phase of trade facilitation and efficiency with the introduction of an advanced scanning system capable of processing up to 200 containers per hour. The initiative, led by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, marks a major milestone in Customs modernization and aligns with the reform-driven vision of Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.

Comptroller Oshoba, who recently assumed duty at the Command, has called on stakeholders to key into the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) project—an initiative that promotes compliance, transparency, and faster clearance for trusted traders. According to him, the new scanner and the AEO scheme will jointly transform port operations at Apapa, Nigeria’s busiest maritime hub.

“The 200-container-per-hour pass-through scanner will redefine how we manage cargo inspection at Apapa,” Oshoba stated. “It’s a game-changer that will drastically reduce clearance delays, curb smuggling, and make the port more efficient and investor-friendly. But to fully benefit, stakeholders must embrace the AEO program, which rewards compliant traders with seamless processing.”

Driving Efficiency Through Experience and Innovation

Comptroller Oshoba’s appointment to Apapa Command builds on a strong professional background in Customs Intelligence, Risk Management, and Special Duties. Since joining the Service in 1991, he has served in key strategic units, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the operational and human elements within Nigeria’s port ecosystem.

He credited his seamless transition at the command to his existing relationship with senior officers and his familiarity with Apapa’s workflow. “The officers here are people I’ve worked with over the years. That mutual understanding has allowed us to hit the ground running,” he said.

Sustained Revenue Growth and Government Support

The Apapa Command continues to maintain strong revenue performance under Oshoba’s leadership, driven by discipline, collaboration, and the favorable trade environment created by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“President Tinubu’s commitment to trade facilitation and ease of doing business has set the stage for Customs to perform optimally,” Oshoba explained. “We are building on those reforms to increase trade volume, improve transparency, and boost revenue generation for national development.”

Partnership and Stakeholder Engagement

Oshoba also highlighted stakeholder collaboration as a pillar of his leadership philosophy. Since assuming office, he has engaged actively with key port players including freight forwarders, clearing agents, sister security agencies, and royal institutions such as the Oba of Lagos and the Ojora of Ijora.

“We are leveraging the CGC’s three-point agenda of consolidation, collaboration, and innovation,” he said. “Engaging stakeholders fosters mutual trust, and that’s critical to modern border management.”

Technology as a Trade Catalyst

The soon-to-be-commissioned scanning facility—expected to be launched by the CGC alongside officials from the Presidency—is designed to process between 150 and 200 containers hourly using advanced imaging technology. This non-intrusive inspection system is expected to cut down inspection time, enhance revenue assurance, and strengthen border security.

Oshoba further explained that the NCS is deploying Advanced Ruling, a proactive service allowing importers to seek binding classification advice before shipping goods to Nigeria. Together with the AEO program, these innovations form part of Customs’ digital transformation strategy.

Export and Trade Facilitation

While Apapa Command focuses primarily on imports, Oshoba clarified that export documentation now falls under the Lilypond Export Command, but noted that Apapa still provides logistical support for outbound shipments. “Our role is to ensure cargo moves seamlessly from the port to the vessels without delay,” he said.

Outlook

With the launch of the new scanners and expansion of trade facilitation programs, Apapa Customs is positioning itself as a leader in efficiency, compliance, and global best practices. Comptroller Oshoba’s message to the trading community is clear: embrace innovation, uphold compliance, and take advantage of the AEO scheme to enjoy faster, smarter, and more transparent cargo clearance.

Apapa Customs Controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, unveils a 200-container-per-hour scanning system and urges stakeholders to adopt the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) scheme for faster clearance, transparency, and efficient trade facilitation at Nigeria’s busiest port.