JIBRIN Sulaima, Comptroller, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Enugu/Anambra/Ebonyi Command, says the service has the most innovative, technological-driven and transparent operations among Federal Government agencies.

Sulaiman made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the ongoing international workshop on Science Parks and Innovation Eco-system for National Development on Thursday, at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

“The Customs operations have been fully automated and today there is no issue of fake receipt, fake payment to Federal Government’s account and other irregularities of the past.

“We have, and still operate with the finest website and software to ensure total efficiency.

“The most leading customs agencies in developed world do not even have the kind of automation of the present custom service in the country, which totally eliminates all forms of human contact.

“Today, you can do all your shipment and customs dealings within the comfort of your office or home through your computer system without going to any customs outfit or knowing any customs’ personnel.

“This innovation was arrived at to ensure that human contact that breeds and brings corruption was totally eliminated and transparency promoted,’’ he said.

Sulaiman, however, regretted that the perceived inefficiency in the shipment and clearance system was attributable to lack of sincerity among Nigerians, “which is usually termed the Nigerian factor’’.

He said with love, patriotism and sincerity on the part of Nigerians, customs’ work would be minimal and no one would interfere with movement of goods in the country.

“If Nigerians are sincere with their declaration in the Form M; I am sure that there will be no 100 per cent physical and eye contact inspection of cargoes at the ports and other terminals.

“Since some importers will declare raw materials import with less tariff but on physical inspection, you find that the container is loaded with new cars.

“If Nigerians are sincere, there would be no customs’ personnel escorting cargoes to avoid it being diverted and declared missing.

“If Nigerians are sincere, I tell you that customs do not have any business bearing arms. For what and for against whom, when there is sincerity in our dealings,’’ he added.

NAN reports that the four-day workshop, which started Feb. 21, is organised by UNN; Ideon Science Park, Sweden and LundaVision AB, Sweden.

The workshop is attended by over 100 lecturers from across Nigerian and African universities including investors. (NAN)

– Feb.  22, 2018 @ 14:32 GMT |