NAGAFF Launches Nationwide Inspection of Bonded Terminals to Improve Trade Facilitation and Logistics Standards
The (NAGAFF) has announced plans to commence a nationwide inspection and assessment of licensed Customs-bonded warehouses and terminals across Nigeria, following growing concerns over operational inefficiencies, inadequate infrastructure, and poor service delivery within the country's cargo logistics chain.
In a statement issued on June 8, 2026, and signed by Dr. Increase Uche, Head of the NAGAFF Trade Advocacy Committee, the association disclosed that its High Command has constituted a Special Technical Assessment Team to carry out a comprehensive evaluation of bonded terminals and warehouses operating across the country.
According to NAGAFF, the exercise is aimed at determining the operational status, service capabilities, and overall viability of licensed bonded facilities while promoting efficiency, regulatory compliance, and improved trade facilitation in Nigeria.
The association explained that the inspection became necessary following complaints from freight forwarders, importers, and shippers regarding delays, poor infrastructure, inadequate equipment, and substandard customer service in some bonded terminals.
The Technical Assessment Team has been mandated to evaluate several critical areas, including the availability and functionality of cargo-handling equipment such as cranes, forklifts, Mafi trucks, reach stackers, and other operational machinery. The team will also assess the quality and adequacy of infrastructure, including container holding bays, cargo examination areas, warehouse facilities, office accommodation, and security systems.
Other key areas of focus include capacity utilization, available operational space, staff strength, personnel competence, customer service quality, accessibility of facilities, power supply systems, technological deployment, and compliance with regulatory, safety, and operational standards governing bonded terminal operations.
NAGAFF stated that the inspection exercise will cover the six geopolitical zones of the federation and will include bonded warehouses and terminals operating within seaports, airports, inland container depots, and other approved logistics facilities.
The association noted that the outcome of the nationwide assessment will provide valuable data and technical insights to support policy recommendations, operational reforms, and improved cargo clearance processes. It added that the exercise is expected to contribute significantly to enhancing the competitiveness of Nigeria's logistics and trade facilitation sector.
The nationwide visitation is scheduled to commence on June 15, 2026, with the inspection of Rolling Grazing Bonded Terminal located at Kilometer 26, opposite the Foreign Affairs Academy along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway in Ijanikin, Lagos State. NAGAFF described the facility as one of the most modern logistics centres currently operating in Lagos State.
The association has also invited members of the media to participate in the visitation exercise to independently observe the assessment process and witness the findings that will be submitted to relevant government authorities for necessary action.
NAGAFF expressed concern that many bonded terminals across the country may not currently meet the minimum standards required for licensing and operation as logistics centres, stressing the need for urgent reforms to improve service delivery and support Nigeria's growing trade and logistics sector.
Dr. Increase Uche reaffirmed the association's commitment to advocating policies and initiatives that will strengthen the nation's freight forwarding industry, improve cargo movement efficiency, and promote international best practices in logistics operations.
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