Customs agents must be included in Single Window

By Steve Agbota

The National President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Mr. Emenike Nwokeoji, has stressed the need to ensure that Customs agents are not sidelined in the implementation of the National Single Window project.

Speaking over the weekend during the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Lagos, Nwokeoji disclosed that ANLCA is already engaged in high-level discussions with the National Single Window Committee ahead of the project’s rollout next year.

According to him, the meeting at ANLCA’s national secretariat was aimed at ensuring early identification of potential gaps or oversights before the platform’s launch.

“We’ve offered suggestions based on what we’ve read so far. We only hope the human factor won’t derail the true intent during implementation,” he said.

Nwokeoji also addressed new tax laws and ANLCA’s ongoing efforts to protect the role of Customs agents in relation to their importer principals.

On the controversial 2023 Nigeria Customs Act, he admitted that several provisions remain unclear.

“Until the necessary amendments are made through the National Assembly, we have articulated the grey areas and are ready to push for amendment at the right time. But for now, we have to live with them,” he stated.

He further revealed that ANLCA played a key role in shaping the new Nigeria Customs Service–managed B’Odogwu platform.

“Our input helped in a great way in shaping the participation of the declarant. Agents can now monitor their jobs from the comfort of their offices, unlike what obtained under NICIS,” Nwokeoji explained.

The ANLCA president also declared a “new dawn” for the association, affirming that it has reclaimed its lost image, relevance, and prestige in less than two years of his administration.

“This is a new dawn in the recent history of our dear association. ANLCA, being the foremost and largest association in the maritime industry, has reclaimed her lost position and prestige within a very short period. The credit goes to you all,” he noted.

Nwokeoji attributed the turnaround to the unity and unwavering support of members, noting that his administration has restored peace and internal cohesion, enabling the association to engage constructively with stakeholders and government agencies.

He concluded by appreciating ANLCA members for their sacrifices and commitment, assuring them that the leadership remains focused on safeguarding their interests.

“We deeply appreciate and share in your challenges and pains. We cannot rest on our oars until victory is achieved,” he assured.