Nigeria’s trade and maritime sector is set for a major operational shift as authorities move toward Customs to phase out physical cargo checks, replacing manual inspections with advanced scanning technology and data-driven analytics by the end of 2026.
The reform, announced by the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, is part of a broader strategy aimed at modernising cargo clearance processes, reducing port congestion, and strengthening border security through the use of digital tools.
According to Adeniyi, the initiative will allow the service to rely more heavily on non-intrusive inspection systems such as cargo scanners and predictive analytics to identify high-risk shipments while facilitating legitimate trade.
Customs to Phase Out Physical Cargo Checks by December 2026
Speaking during the unveiling of a new data and intelligence facility in Apapa, Adeniyi confirmed that the Customs to phase out physical cargo checks policy would take full effect by December 2026.
He explained that the service is transitioning from a system dominated by manual cargo inspections to one driven by technology and intelligence.
“Physical examinations will be completely phased out by December 2026 as the service will rely on scanning machines and data analytics,” he said.
The announcement was made during the inauguration of the CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi Analytical Arena, a two-storey complex designed to strengthen intelligence operations and data analysis within the Customs system.
The facility houses the analytics centre, the Customs Intelligence Unit, and several operational offices expected to support the technology-driven transformation of cargo clearance procedures.
Technology-Driven Inspections to Boost Port Efficiency
Officials say the decision that Customs to phase out physical cargo checks is intended to drastically reduce delays in the cargo clearance process.
Nigeria’s seaports have long struggled with congestion partly attributed to lengthy manual inspections, which often slow down cargo movement and increase the cost of doing business.
By deploying scanning machines at key entry points, authorities hope to significantly accelerate cargo processing while ensuring that suspicious shipments are properly flagged for further investigation.
Major ports targeted for expanded scanning operations include:
- Apapa Port in Lagos
- Tin Can Island Port
- Port Harcourt Port
- Onne Port
- Calabar Port
The Customs chief noted that increasing the proportion of containers inspected through scanners would enable officers to focus their attention on high-risk cargo rather than examining every shipment physically.
Current Cargo Inspection Data Shows Heavy Manual Checks
Operational data from the Apapa Command shows why the reform is necessary.
Statistics presented during the event revealed that a large proportion of consignments entering Nigeria are still subjected to manual inspections.
For instance, more than 21,000 consignments passed through the Red Channel, which requires full physical examination, compared with just 3,236 shipments inspected through scanning under the Orange Channel.
Other clearance categories included 5,490 documentary checks under the Yellow Channel, 1,118 shipments under the Blue Channel, and 149 under the Green Channel, which typically indicates low-risk cargo.
Industry stakeholders say the Customs to phase out physical cargo checks initiative could significantly rebalance these figures by increasing the share of cargo processed through scanning technology.
New Analytical Centre to Drive Intelligence-Led Operations
During the inauguration ceremony, the Customs Area Controller for Apapa Command, Emmanuel Oshoba, described the analytical arena as a major step toward intelligence-driven operations.
According to Oshoba, the facility will enhance collaboration between the Customs Intelligence Unit and the analytics centre, allowing officers to analyse cargo data more effectively and detect irregularities in trade documentation.
He explained that the complex also includes a clinic and strategic operational offices designed to improve officer welfare and administrative efficiency.
The facility, he added, reflects the leadership’s vision to strengthen the role of technology in tackling smuggling and facilitating legitimate trade.
Compliance Key to Successful Implementation
Authorities emphasised that the success of the Customs to phase out physical cargo checks reform will depend largely on compliance by importers and exporters.
Adeniyi urged traders to make accurate declarations of their cargo and participate in the Authorised Economic Operator programme, which offers trusted traders faster clearance and reduced inspection requirements.
According to him, businesses that demonstrate consistent compliance with Customs regulations will benefit from fewer intrusive checks and faster cargo processing.
The programme is designed to encourage transparency and promote stronger cooperation between the government and the private sector.
Trade Facilitation and Security Benefits
Industry experts believe the shift toward technology-driven inspections could significantly improve Nigeria’s standing in global trade logistics rankings.
Manual inspections not only slow cargo movement but also increase operational costs for importers, shipping companies, and port operators.
By implementing scanning systems and advanced analytics, the Customs to phase out physical cargo checks policy could enhance the efficiency of Nigerian ports while strengthening national security.
Non-intrusive inspection technologies allow authorities to detect hidden goods, smuggled items, and prohibited imports without opening containers physically.
This approach is widely used in advanced port systems around the world.
Maritime Sector Welcomes Reform
Stakeholders in the maritime and logistics sector have welcomed the planned reforms, noting that faster cargo clearance could boost trade competitiveness and attract more shipping traffic to Nigerian ports.
They also argue that the shift toward data-driven inspections could help curb smuggling networks that exploit manual processes and documentation loopholes.
However, analysts stress that the success of the reform will depend on adequate investment in scanning equipment, training of personnel, and proper maintenance of the technology deployed.
With Nigeria seeking to strengthen its position as a regional trade hub, the planned move by the Customs service signals a broader effort to modernise border management and align the country’s port operations with global best practices.
