The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) unveils its pilot Management Information System (MIS) File Tracker at the Port Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command in Lagos, as the Command’s Acting Controller Nura Ibrahim Miko pledges to justify the confidence reposed in him and his team
By Edu Abade
In its continued bid to enhance trade facilitation, ease of doing business and boost revenue generation in the country, the Nigeria Customs Service has launched the pilot scheme of its Management Information System (MIS) File Tracker commencing at Port Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Area Command.
Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi described the move as part of efforts to deepen the use of technology for easy administration of customs personnel and promote speed and efficiency in processing documentation
Adeniyi, who was represented by Deputy Comptroller General in Charge of ICT and Modernization (DCG) Oluyomi Adebakin, said the initiative represents another milestone in the Service’s expanding modernization agenda, which is focused on deploying digital solutions to improve operational efficiency, enhance transparency, and facilitate seamless trade.
Adebakin reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to leveraging technology to transform its operations and improve service delivery. As the architect of several landmark digital initiatives, including the Nigeria Trade Portal and the Customs Verification Management System, she noted that the deployment of the MIS File Tracker further demonstrates the Service’s resolve to embrace innovation in line with global best practices.
She said the introduction of the MIS File Tracker will further strengthen the command’s reputation as a centre for innovation within the NCS with key features that promotes ease of administration
Speaking further, Adebakin pointed out that the MIS represents an Enterprise Platform for all Customs administrative processes that would serve as a Single Sign-On (SSO) application, which enables one unified data set to be used across all departments administratively.
She also urged the men and officers of the Command to utilize the application for key administrative functions, including Leave and Pass Applications, File Tracking; Duty Roster, Internal Staff Orders, Nominal Roll and other administrative processes.
Stressing that the platform also provides avenues for feedback on areas requiring modifications, additions and improvements, she maintained that the deployment of the MIS File Tracker was expected to streamline internal workflows, reduce manual processes, and support data-driven decision-making across the Service.
The PTML Area Command, widely regarded as one of the most technologically advanced commands in the Service, has continued to serve as the preferred pilot location for cutting-edge Customs modernization projects including the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), also known as B’Odogwu.
Speaking on the deployment at the Command, which he said was a privilege, Acting Controller of the Command, Deputy Comptroller Nura Miko, expressed optimism in the commands ability to successfully implement the rollout and serve as a model for customs innovation.
A statement made available to journalists Public Relations Officer at the PTML Command, CSC AT Abubakar, quoted Miko as saying that the command was doing everything possible to maximize all technologically-backed trade facilitation initiatives facilitated by the management of the NCS.
While thanking the CGC Adeniyi for his unwavering belief in the command’s ability to deliver efficiently, the Acting Controller stated that efforts were being made to reduce the two-hour cargo clearing record for compliant Roll-On-Roll-Off (RoRo) cargoes to one hour.
Miko lauded the innovation as a bold step towards sustaining the feats of NCS being a leading customs administration in Africa and reiterated that the PTML Command will justify the confidence reposed in it by seeing to the success of the MIS File Tracker from the rollout stage to its full and successful implementation.
Meanwhile, barely two months after assuming office, the Acting Controller of PTML Command, DC Miko, has been receiving commendations from port users, licensed customs agents, and officers for a series of transformative upgrades at the Command’s Customs Processing Centre (CPC).
Stakeholders describe the changes as practical, user-focused, and long overdue, saying they are already improving the daily experience of clearing goods at one of Nigeria’s busiest RoRo terminals.
The upgrades include the creation of a dedicated, comfortable separate waiting area for CPC users, full renovation of all offices including the Technical Supervisor’s office, installation of a modern cloak changing room, and the establishment of a functional kitchenette that allows officers to have their meals on-site during breaks without leaving the command premises.
These interventions, among other notable improvements, are being hailed as clear evidence of responsive leadership that prioritizes operational efficiency and human welfare.
Port users say the physical and operational enhancements have reduced congestion, improved professionalism, and created a more conducive environment for trade facilitation.
“This is the kind of change we have been praying for. The separate waiting area has brought sanity to what used to be a chaotic space. Agents and importers can now wait in comfort instead of crowding corridors with documents. DC Miko has shown he understands our pain points and is moving fast to address them. This is ease of doing business in action.”
A clearing and forwarding agent with several years of experience at the terminal, Mrs. Funke Adewale, added, “The renovated offices and the new kitchenette are game-changers. When officers have a decent workspace and can eat without travelling far, their morale improves and they process documents faster. We are already seeing the difference in turnaround time. This is leadership that cares about both the users and the officers who serve us.”
Another senior Customs officer at the CPC, commended the welfare-focused interventions, saying, “For those of us who have worked here for years, these changes feel refreshing. The cloak changing room adds dignity and professionalism to our operations. The kitchenette means we no longer have to rush out or skip meals during shifts. DC Miko has shown genuine concern for officer welfare in a very short time. We are motivated to give our best.”
A freight forwarding practitioner linked the upgrades directly to the PTML’s broader efficiency goals, Samuel Obi, said, “DC Miko promised to break the existing two-hour clearance record by ensuring compliant RoRo importers clear their goods within one hour. These CPC improvements — better waiting facilities, renovated workspaces, and officer welfare — are the foundation for that promise. When the environment is right and officers are supported, faster clearance becomes achievable. PTML users are optimistic. This is the kind of reform that reduces demurrage costs and strengthens Nigeria’s competitiveness as a maritime nation.”
Tentacle recalled that DC Miko formally, who assumed duty as Acting Customs Area Controller of PTML Command on May 25, 2026, has proven to be a highly regarded officer with an impressive record of revenue administration, a record he had maintained from his days at the Apapa Command as Deputy Controller in charge of Revenue.
