The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has introduced a new Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) aimed at boosting national security and streamlining trade operations across the country.
The Customs Area Controller of Apapa Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, announced the rollout at the Apapa Port, describing the system as a major step forward in the digital transformation of port operations.
The pilot deployment, which commenced on November 5, is tracking a container bound for the Kano/Jigawa Area Command — marking the first live implementation of the technology in Nigeria.
The ECTS uses electronic seals and handheld tracking devices to monitor container movements from point of departure to final destination, ensuring transparency while reducing risks of diversion, tampering and smuggling. Oshoba said the innovation would significantly reduce reliance on physical escorts and enhance efficiency in cargo movement nationwide.
“This is a reform-driven shift that strengthens our ability to secure the supply chain and promote ease of doing business,” he said, praising Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi for championing automation and modernisation within the Service.
Deputy Comptroller Christopher Fanyam, who leads the implementation team at Apapa, said the tracking process will be managed jointly by officers from the Rapid Response Unit of the Federal Operations Unit (Zone A) in Ikeja and the Apapa Enforcement Team.
She confirmed that officers had undergone comprehensive training and were “fully ready” to operate the system in line with clearly defined Standard Operating Procedures.
Fanyam expressed optimism that the pilot would deliver improved cargo security, faster clearance processes and more seamless trade facilitation as the technology expands to other ports and command areas nationwide.