The challenges of cargo clearance at the Nigerian ports. (A service provider and shippers perspectives)

Abstract

The objective of this research work is to x-ray the challenges of cargo clearance at the Nigeria Ports; a service provider and shippers perspective. Cargo clearance delays were brought about by several factors some which include government policy inconsistencies, which resulted in gross inefficiency and low productivity of the port system. This research examines the operational and managerial problems associated with cargo clearance. It looks at the ugly situation which attempts to impede port productivity and managerial efficiency, culminating in abysmal port performance within the confines of the maritime industry. This research work also examines some government efforts in finding lasting solutions to the problems of delays in cargo clearance in Nigerian ports system, such as the establishment of bonded warehouses and ICDs across the six geo-political zones of the country, there is need for government to adopt a re-visitation of Pre-shipment inspection policy as a way of ensuring speedy clearance at the port to curtail obvious corruptive tendencies and sharp practices by some agencies, there is need for government to invest massively in port infrastructures as a way of facilitating speedy clearance of goods at the port. The study reviewed relevant literatures on the causes of cargo delays clearance processes, its impact on terminal operations, Maritime Industry, the Nigerian economy and the solutions to speedy cargo clearance process in Nigerian ports. From the result of findings it can be concluded that cargo clearance in Nigerian ports needs strict control and management measures so that the problems can be effectively check-mated and maximum efficiency achieved. It is also recommended that, there is need for an expansion of old berths and quays into modern world class model for better accommodations of vessels.