The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) says
it has commenced a 24-hour operation
for analysing cargo manifests and
issuing debit notes to shipping agents.
The development is in compliance with the presidential directive in
Lagos ports – part of the executive orders signed by Acting President
Yemi Osinbajo earlier in May.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Isichei Osamgbi, NIMASA head of
corporate communications, offices of the agency would also be open on
weekends “to accommodate shipping agents”.
“Shipping agents can, therefore, access the agency at these times
with their manifests for further necessary action after which a debit
note will be issued to them not later than 24 hours after submission,”
the statement read.
Osamgbi said the 24-hour operation has impacted the overall
performance of port operations and has increased the efficiency of the
system.
The statement quoted Dakuku Peterside, director general of the
agency, as saying the development would lessen the long dwell time of
vessels calling Lagos ports, which he said was stifling trade.
Peterside also said there would be constant monitoring and evaluation
of the new approach to analysing manifests and issuing debit notes to
ensure its effectiveness.
He added that automation of the entire process is “receiving priority attention”.
“As a responsible agency, we are committed to implementing this
directive and if it means extending work hours or even instituting a
shift system, we will,” he said.
Credit: Ships&Ports
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