Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Customs Area Controller of the Tin Can Island Port Command (TCIP), Controller Frank Onyeka, has called on stakeholders to ensure full and accurate declarations of goods, emphasizing that transparency in customs processes is key to facilitating trade and improving efficiency at the ports.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting with the executives of the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANALCA) Tin Can Port Chapter on Wednesday, Controller Onyeka underscored the importance of proper documentation, stating that it not only eases business operations but also helps combat illicit trade, reduces port delays, and enhances national revenue collection.
“Proper declarations are the foundation of an efficient customs process. When stakeholders declare goods correctly, it enables us to streamline operations, reduce bottlenecks at the ports, and improve the overall experience for both businesses and consumers,” Onyeka stated.
The meeting is part of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS)’s ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with key players in the trade sector, including importers, exporters, freight forwarders, and customs brokers. The initiative aligns with the NCS’s broader mission to foster a transparent, fair, and secure international trade environment.
Controller Onyeka further urged stakeholders to collaborate with the NCS in upholding integrity and professionalism in their transactions, reassuring them of Customs’ commitment to capacity building and technology-driven solutions that enhance trade efficiency. 
“We must work together to ensure the declaration process is not just a statutory requirement but a tool for trade facilitation. By enhancing compliance and promoting transparency, we are building a more robust and dynamic trade ecosystem,” he added.
Stakeholders at the meeting expressed appreciation for Onyeka’s open-door policy. The Board of Trustees (BOT) Secretary of ANALCA, Mr. Taiwo Oyeniyi, commended the Controller’s leadership style, noting that his experience as a valuation officer at TCIP and his past performance at Onne Command position him well for success.
“Customs generated ₦6.1 billion last year and has been given a target of ₦12 billion this year. To meet this target, Controller Onyeka must close revenue loopholes. However, we appeal that if he sees any issues, he should engage with us as a grassroots leader,” Oyeniyi said.
He further encouraged stakeholders to cooperate with the Controller by making honest declarations, adding that continued dialogue between Customs and industry players would be essential for trade growth and compliance.