CEM REPORT, TRADE | The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the resumption of its electronic auctioning (e-auction) of seized and overtime goods, including cars and containerized consignments that have been abandoned in the ports for years.
The NCS said in a statement that it unveiled its revamped e-auction platform on Tuesday, 16 January 2024, following the guidelines outlined in the newly enacted Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
The e-auction platform is designed to ensure transparent and efficient disposal of seized and overtime goods while providing Nigerians with an equal opportunity to participate in the bidding process.
Abdullahi Maiwada, the national public relations officer of Customs, said the strategic move showcases the agency’s dedication to efficiency and fairness.
“Since its re-launch, the platform has recorded impressive results, including 1137 bids; 1099 registered applicants; 652 successfully paid administration fee; 100 vehicles uploaded on the window and 86 vehicles bided and won,” he said.
He advised successful bidders to promptly download their winning certificates through the provided link in the confirmation email, adding that winners are required to present the certificate where the goods are domiciled, and the clearance process is expected to be done within seven days.
According to him, the auctions are periodic, and they open every Tuesday from 12 noon to 6 pm, providing the public with regular opportunities to select and bid for desired items.
“For comprehensive details and guidelines on the e-auction process, interested participants are encouraged to visit the NCS website. People are also expected to direct any concerns or complaints to the NCS Helpdesk, which is operational from Mondays to Fridays during work hours,” he said.
He added that the NCS acknowledges occasional glitches reported by participants, potentially attributed to high traffic and that its dedicated technical team is actively addressing the situation.
“We assure the public that initial issues will be swiftly resolved to ensure a seamless experience in all subsequent exercises,” he said.
NCS Committed to Transparency through E-auction
The NCS said it will remain committed to transparency, accessibility, and public engagement through its revamped e-auction platform, fostering a fair and efficient process for the disposal of seized and overtime goods.
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The e-auction platform is part of the NCS’s efforts to modernise its operations and enhance its revenue generation. The NCS reported a record revenue collection of N2.5 trillion in 2023, surpassing its target of N2.3 trillion.
The NCS also said it seized 5,342 items worth N189.3 billion in 2023, including 133,623 bags of rice, 10,447 vehicles, 17,197 jerry cans of vegetable oil, 18,298 cartons of frozen poultry products, 12,762 parcels of Indian hemp, among others.
The NCS attributed its achievements to the deployment of technology, intelligence, and collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders.
