Customs' Server Failures Costing Lagos Seaports N192m Daily, NAGAFF Cries Out
The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has petitioned the Federal Ministry of Finance over the persistent server failures of the Nigeria Customs Service, which are causing massive daily losses of N192 million at the Lagos seaports.
In a letter to the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, the National Coordinator of the 100% Compliance Team, Alhaji Tanko Ibrahim, expressed frustration over the recurring technical issues, which have resulted in unbearable hardship, demurrage, revenue loss, and disruption of services in the maritime industry.
According to Ibrahim, over 1,600 containers are trapped at Apapa, Tin Can, PTML, and Kirikiri Lighter terminals due to server failures, resulting in daily losses of N192 million. With over 2,000 containers stuck at off-dock terminals, the cumulative losses are staggering.
The team alleges that the server failures have been a recurring problem with the Customs service provider, Webb Fontaine, and are concerned that a new outfit may be appointed to replace them without a thorough review of their contract. They question why an outfit that has demonstrated gross incompetence over time is being hired to oversee critical infrastructure.
The petition highlights the urgent need for a reliable and efficient system to facilitate trade and prevent such colossal losses.
0 Comments