Customs, NIMASA, 6 others permitted to operate in ports

Abuja

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) said that only eight federal government agencies are allowed to operate and have physical representation at all port locations in the country.
In a signed statement by the General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications of NPA, Alhaji Abdullahi Goje, the corporation said the disclosure followed a directive of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC).
According to the PEBEC directive, the NPA is to ensure strict compliance with October 26, 2011 presidential directive on agencies permitted to operate in the ports.
“Agencies allowed representation at the ports are: Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigeria Police, Department of State Security (DSS).
“Other agencies are: Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Port Health and the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA),’’ he said.
Goje stressed that the other agencies not mentioned on the list must remain outside the port premises.
“The Nigerian Customs Service, which is the lead agency for inspection of cargoes, has developed standard operating procedures to facilitate seamless operation,’’ Goje said.
The NPA spokesman said that the authority remained committed to the Ease of Doing Business policy of the present administration said the presidential initiative is meant to improve the business environment at all country.
He solicited for the support of all agencies and stakeholders in the Nigerian Maritime Sector towards making Nigeria, a destination of choice for all legitimate businesses.

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