Apapa Customs Introduced Electronic Cargo Tracking System in Landmark Move to Secure Trade Corridors

 

In a major stride toward digital transformation and national security, the Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) a technology-driven innovation designed to monitor cargo in real time, prevent diversion, and streamline trade operations across Nigeria’s ports.

The historic pilot launch, conducted on November 5, 2025, featured the successful tracking of a container bound for the Kano/Jigawa Area Command, marking the first live deployment of the system in Nigeria’s maritime and inland trade chain.

Speaking during the event at the Apapa Port, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller (CAC), described the ECTS as “a strategic reform tool that reinforces transparency, strengthens cargo integrity, and reduces the need for physical escorts.”
According to him, the system uses electronic seals and handheld devices to track containers from departure to destination, giving Customs officers the ability to monitor cargo electronically and detect any form of tampering or unauthorized detours.

Oshoba commended the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, for championing the initiative, describing him as a visionary leader driving the Service’s automation agenda. He noted that with Nigeria currently holding the Chairmanship of the World Customs Organization (WCO), the rollout of the ECTS aligns with global best practices in trade facilitation and border security.

“This innovation demonstrates Nigeria’s readiness to embrace digital governance in port operations. It will enhance national security, improve revenue generation, and ensure faster cargo clearance,” Oshoba added.

Deputy Comptroller Aondona Christopher Fanyam, Head of B’Odogwu Implementation at the Apapa Command, further explained that containers under the ECTS remain sealed throughout transit and can only be unlocked through three secure methods remote control via a central command system, authorized handheld devices, or a physical unlocking card at the final destination.
He said these multiple security layers make it nearly impossible for unauthorized access or diversion, adding that the technology will bolster trade confidence and protect government revenue.

Also speaking, Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) Rosemary Ebele Wenceslas, who leads the ECTS training unit, disclosed that 12 officers have been trained for the pilot phase. The team, drawn from the Rapid Response Unit of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A and the Enforcement Team of Apapa Command, have undergone intensive technical training and familiarization with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for smooth implementation.

“Our officers are fully equipped to deploy the system efficiently and ensure the pilot achieves its objectives of enhanced cargo monitoring, improved trade facilitation, and stronger national security,” Wenceslas affirmed.