Customs Gets Pass Mark On PAAR Implementation

The  Seaport Terminal Op
erators Association of Nigeria (STOAN) has commended the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on the implementation of Destination Inspection Scheme (DI) and Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR).
Chairman of STOAN, Dr. Vicky Haastrup, gave the commendation in Lagos in a press statement issued on her behalf by, Mr Bolaji Akinola, the association spokesman.
Haastrup expressed confidence in the ability of the NCS to ensure success of the PAAR scheme and operations of scanning machines at the seaports, airports and border posts.
“The takeover of the DI and introduction of PAAR by the Comptroller General of Customs, Alhaji Dikko-Inde Abdullahi, is a commendable move.
“As patriotic Nigerians, we support government’s decision on the importation regime and we will give the Nigeria Customs Service unflinching support in ensuring that it succeeds in this onerous task thrust on it,” she said.
Haastrup said that 2013 witnessed tremendous improvement as many terminal operators increased the efficiency of their services through acquisition of additional modern cargo handling equipment and upgrade of their terminals.
“Last year was a challenging year for terminal operators as break bulk terminals were especially affected by government policy.
“This is especially as it affects the importation of rice. But despite that, we have remained resolute in our commitment to continue to develop the port.
“Efficiency at our ports today is unparalleled due to huge investment in information technology, modern cargo handling equipment and the development of the right human resources by terminal operators.
“However, the inefficiencies around the port, especially with regard to other service deliveries, trucking and port access roads remain a huge dent on the ports,” she said.
Haastrup said that STOAN would continue to support government to ensure that bottlenecks around the port environment were removed.