PTML Customs Command Bans Imported Vehicles Chassis Number Alteration, Cross-Releasing of Cargo
DC Nura Miko, PTML Customs Controller
By DAPO OLAWUNI
The Port and Terminal Multi-services Limited (PTML) Customs Command has prohibited imported vehicles chassis number alteration and cross-releasing of cargo, warning licensed customs agents and other port users against violations of its cargo clearance procedures.
The directives were among the resolutions reached at a stakeholders’ meeting between the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), PTML Chapter, and the Area Comptroller of the PTML Customs Command, Deputy Comptroller Nura Ibrahim Miko, on Friday, October 16, 2026.
According to a statement issued by ANLCA PTML Chapter on Monday, the Customs Command also directed that all documents submitted for cargo clearance must bear a consistent agency name from the VREG stage through to final delivery.
The chapter’s Publicity Secretary, Uchechukwu Aniezechukwu, who signed the statement, urged agents to verify their documentation thoroughly before submission to avoid discrepancies that could disrupt the clearance process.
“All documents submitted for cargo clearance must bear the same agency name from the VREG stage through to final delivery.
“Any discrepancy in the agency name at any stage of the clearance process must be avoided. Stakeholders are therefore advised to verify their documentation thoroughly before submission” the statement read
On chassis numbers, the Customs Command maintained that alteration would not be permitted under any circumstances.
Agents and other stakeholders were directed to ensure that chassis numbers remained accurate and consistent throughout documentation, assessment, examination and clearance.
The command also barred cross-releasing of cargo, directing agents to confirm the shade or location of their consignments before commencing assessment.
“Where an agent discovers that the cargo is in a different shade from the expected location, the agent should proceed to the PA’s Office for reassignment at no cost. Stakeholders are advised to follow this procedure rather than attempt any form of cross-release”
The briefing warned that non-compliance with the directives could attract serious operational and financial consequences, including avoidable delays, additional costs and other sanctions.
The ANLCA PTML Chapter, consequently urged its members, importers, operational teams, punchers and other port users to comply fully with the Customs Command’s directives.
The chapter said adherence to the resolutions would promote transparency, improve operational discipline and enhance efficiency in cargo clearance at PTML.
