Trade facilitation: Customs unveils digital baggage import declaration
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has introduced a Simplified Baggage Import Declaration System at the Seme Area Command, marking a significant step in its efforts to enhance digital innovation and improve passenger clearance processes.
This new system aims to streamline the baggage declaration process, reduce clearance times, and provide greater transparency for legitimate travelers and cross-border traders. Passengers can now initiate their declarations using mobile devices or complete them at designated digital kiosks located within the command.
By utilizing standardized assessment tables for declared personal goods, the system automatically calculates duties and generates receipts upon payment. This advancement eliminates manual bottlenecks and discretionary assessments, resulting in a more predictable and efficient clearance process.
Tunde Ayagbalo, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, reported early successes following the system’s rollout, noting that the command has achieved an average clearance turnaround time of less than five minutes since implementation. During the initial days of operation, revenue generated from passenger baggage declarations reached 10.3 million naira, with the automated system providing a direct and transparent method for remitting duties to the Federation Account.
Ayagbalo also mentioned that the simplified declaration system is being introduced alongside enhanced enforcement measures. Improved risk management and intelligence-led controls are in place to intercept attempts to conceal large quantities of restricted or prohibited goods within passenger baggage.
Comptroller Abdullahi Kaila, Area Controller of the Seme Command, stated, “This deployment is part of our broader modernization agenda. We are determined to improve the passenger experience while safeguarding revenue and national security. Technology is the bridge between facilitation and enforcement.”
The Command reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability through this initiative.
