ANLCA Ikorodu Chapter Calls for Revitalization of Customs Warehouse As New Bonded Terminal Sparks Controversy

By DAPO OLAWUNI

The Ikorodu Chapter of the Association of Nigeria Customs Licensed Agents (ANLCA) has expressed deep concern over an alleged dispute between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) regarding space allocation at the Ikorodu Customs Government Warehouse. The disagreement centers around the proposed allocation of a section of the warehouse for a private bonded terminal, a move that ANLCA insists must follow due process and receive approval from NCS headquarters.

In a press release issued by Chapter Chairman, Mr. Ikechukwu Martins, ANLCA emphasized its support for initiatives that improve trade facilitation but stressed that all operational changes must adhere to established procedures.
The association warned that deviations from these procedures could lead to operational disruptions, legal complications, and inefficiencies.

“While we support initiatives that enhance efficiency and improve trade facilitation, ANLCA Ikorodu Chapter insists that all space allocations and operational changes must strictly follow due process, with proper approvals from NCS headquarters. Any deviation from these procedures could lead to operational disruptions, legal complications, and inefficiencies within the system” he said

ANLCA highlighted the underutilization of the Ikorodu Customs Government Warehouse for the past two years, citing concerns raised by the chapter since the departure of former Customs Area Controllers, DC Williams Opkabi and DC Adelaja.

The association pointed to past irregularities at the facility, including alleged revenue remittance failures and lapses by the service provider, Sapid.

The ANLCA Chairman, Ikechukwu Martins drew a comparison with private bonded terminals, where he alleged corruption and questionable transfers of overtime and auction goods. He questioned the rationale behind Customs paying private terminal operators millions of Naira while its own facility remains inactive.

He called on the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to prioritize the transfer of overtime and auction goods to the Ikorodu Customs Government Warehouse.

The association expressed confidence in the leadership of CSC Mu’azu, the Officer in Charge of the warehouse, and believes the facility can be revitalized to operate efficiently, generate revenue, and improve trade facilitation.

Mr. Martins emphasized the underutilization of officers stationed at the terminal and urged for the warehouse to be utilized as a critical hub for customs operations.

ANLCA Ikorodu Chapter reiterated its commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure transparency and efficiency at the Ikorodu terminal. The association called for constructive dialogue among all parties involved to resolve the space allocation dispute in a manner that benefits the industry and the national economy.