By Stella Odueme
A joint delegation of technical experts from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and Trade Modernisation Project Limited (TMPL) has commenced testing of newly acquired cargo inspection scanners and an Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) in China.
The delegation, led by Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Information Communication and Technology/Modernisation Department, Oluyomi Adebakin, is conducting the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) at the facility of Nuctech Company Limited, the manufacturer of the equipment.
The two-week exercise, which commenced on October 9, 2026, and ended on October 20, 2026, is aimed at verifying the technical performance and compliance of the Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) equipment and ECTS with contractual specifications and international operational standards before their shipment to Nigeria.
The two technologies are designed to complement each other by improving cargo examination and enabling real-time tracking of consignments from ports to their final destinations.
Speaking during the exercise, Adebakin reaffirmed the commitment of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, to deploying modern technology to enhance trade facilitation, revenue generation and national security.
She explained that the Factory Acceptance Test was an essential quality assurance process to ensure that the equipment met the required standards and would perform optimally upon deployment in Nigeria.
According to her, the initiative is expected to accelerate cargo examination, reduce cargo dwell time, strengthen the detection of concealed and prohibited items, and improve revenue collection while facilitating legitimate trade.
The Acting Comptroller of Non-Intrusive Inspection, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Umar Madugu, said the deployment of the scanners and ECTS would reduce reliance on 100 per cent physical examination, minimise human contact, prevent cargo diversion and improve operational efficiency across Customs formations.
Representing TMPL, the company's General Manager, Bamidele Chinedu, described the exercise as a significant milestone in the implementation of the Trade Modernisation Project.
He noted that integrating non-intrusive inspection scanners with electronic cargo tracking technology was central to building a transparent, efficient and technology-driven Customs administration.
The Project Manager of Nuctech Company Limited, China, Niu Chao, assured the delegation of the company's commitment to supplying world-class equipment and providing technical support, capacity building and after-sales services.
As part of the exercise, technical personnel from the NCS and TMPL also received training on the handling, operation and maintenance of the scanners and electronic tracking system to support their effective deployment and long-term sustainability in Nigeria.