Time Release Studies : Customs Consultative Committee Congratulates Compt. Nnadi as Chairman

Time Release Studies : Customs Consultative Committee Congratulates Compt. Nnadi as Chairman

As Nigeria Customs Service ( NCS) begins implementation of the Time Release Studies as affirmed by the Comptroller General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, during 2023 CGC conference in Lagos, the Customs Consultative Committee (CCC)  has congratulated, Comptroller Dera Nnadi of TinCan Island Port Command for his appointment as the Chairman, Customs Service Trade Facilitation / Time Release Studies Committee.

In a congratulatory message sent to our Correspondent, Fwdr. Eugene Nweke, the Secretary, Customs Consultative Committee, reads ;
“Dear Comptroller Nnadi ,
your appointment as the Chairman of Nigeria Customs Service – Trade Facilitation/ Time Release Study Implementation Committee is purely on your merit, especially so, having being a pioneer member of the trade tool domestication, development and experiments team on “Time Release Study (TRS )” years back.

“For a mention, it is on record that you actively representative the Service and contributed positively during the port reforms programme of government, culminating to ports concessions process in 2006, then as the Public Relations Officer of Customs, Apapa Command.

“Notably, the process coincided with migration from Automated System for Customs Data ASYCUDA to ASYCUDA 2.7 Site and later to ASUCUDA ++, which serves as the precursor of NICIS.

“Additionally, not losing sight of your roles in the Committee that midwifed NCS migration from manual to e-Payment with Apapa Command and Ecobank as pilot. Also, an alumnus of the prestigious National Institute for  Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos/Plateau State.

“It is based on these tall professional background on general Customs administration and practical experience on the subject of international trade facilitation and relevant applicable trade tools, that, the Customs Consultative Committee has no iota of doubts on your capacity to deliver on this peculiar vision and mandate of the CGC and his management team, in line with renewed hope mantra of the present administration, of His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“This rare appointment is essentially crucial to the trading public, aside bringing the Comptroller General of Customs and his management team vision to the fore, especially on the most and widely canvassed subject – TRADE FACILITATION Functions of the Service, it is indeed a critical task that must be discharged honourably, passionately, professionally and with utmost commitment for the common good of Nigerians in general, and in particular the trading public ( that is the port users, as well as consumers of the port goods & services).

“At this juncture, CCC wishes to posit here that, without doubt, trade facilitation is critical core functions of NCS and most desirable in the present imports/exports clearance activities across international frontiers and  inherent value adding supply chain.

“In the light of this, the CCC appreciates and understands that, Customs and regulations play a crucial role in the nation’s economy, especially in transportation and logistics industry,  as such, urges you and your committee members not to lose sight at the peculiar functions in relation to Compliance with international standards with regards to the business implications for trade facilitation and liberalisation, as enshrined in WCO/WTO/UNCTAD recommendations.

“It is also vital in maintaining the security, safety & fluidity of the trade and upholding the model of port value, adding supply chain and gamut of the maritime industry.

“Prompt legitimate trade facilitation, so as to reduce administrative burdens on businesses.

“Firm regulatory essence and strategic collaboration, as businesses and consumers benefit from Customs regulatory overtures, via safeguarding businesses interests (in lieu of intellectual property rights – IPR). Non compromising the revenue, safety and quality of products being transported across international frontiers. Deployment of data analytics for national statistics, planning, forecasting and effective administrative goals.”

He emphasised :  ” It is on this note that the Committee deems it necessary to beckon on Business interests/the trading public and relevant agencies to understand the need for prompt collaboration and compliance with Customs trade laws and regulations, in order to ensure the legal, smooth flow and efficient movement of goods during clearance processes.

“The Committee shall continue to upholds to the prism that, under legitimate trade facilitation rules, business interests must embrace all trade facilitation tools with sense of equity.

“It is also important to state that, protection of National interests are not a mere special treatment , rather in the context of trade facilitation, it could be seen as a deferential and fair treatment for our peculiarities, especially so, as a country with differential capabilities and needs.

“In Conclusion, the Committee once again congratulate you and your committee members and pray for God guidance in the discharge of your duties”.