The battle against illicit imports, contraband, and security breaches at our maritime gateways just stepped up a gear! The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced plans and commenced implementation to roll out a full 100 percent cargo scanning policy at the strategic Onne Port in Rivers State.
Here is everything you need to know about the new tech-driven push reshaping trade and security in the region.
🔍 Inside the Strategy: What 100% Scanning Means
Speaking during a media briefing ahead of the Service’s public engagement events in Port Harcourt, the National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, detailed how the system will work:
Pre-Scanned Compliance: All goods arriving through the port will undergo non-intrusive inspection technology (scanners) before clearance.
Digital Traceability: Scanning images will be captured, stored, and seamlessly integrated with import declarations.
HQ Oversight: To ensure zero loopholes, these images will be transmitted directly to the NCS headquarters in Abuja for further analysis and cross-checking.
Following successful deployment phases at major western hubs like Apapa Port in Lagos, the initiative is expanding directly to Onne to counter evolving smuggling tactics.
🛡️ Addressing the "State of Interest"
Recall that Onne Port was previously placed under heightened security surveillance following major intercepted caches of illicit pharmaceuticals, arms, and ammunition.
Clearing the air on the facility's status, Customs authorities emphasized that port operations and legal import businesses are fully open, clarifying that the heightened surveillance status simply means the gateway remains a place of "special interest" for security intelligence.
💡 What This Means for Port Harcourt Traders & Stakeholders
While new technological reforms occasionally draw pushback during transitional phases, Customs leadership maintains that upgrading to automated, non-intrusive inspection is non-negotiable.
Ultimately, the policy is designed to:
Curb Smuggling: Block dangerous weapons, illicit drugs, and unapproved medical products from entering our communities.
Streamline Trade: Cut down cumbersome manual container examinations, reduce cargo dwell times for compliant traders, and boost overall port efficiency.
What are your thoughts on this technological upgrade at Onne Port? Drop your comments below and keep it locked to PORTHARCOURTBLOG for real-time updates straight from Rivers State!
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