Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The newly appointed Nigeria Customs Area Controller of the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone, OGFTZ Command, Onne, Rivers State, Comptroller Aliyu Alkali, has reassured stakeholders of his commitment to enhancing trade facilitation and ensuring regulatory compliance within the zone.
During a familiarization meeting at the Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority in Onne, Alkali engaged with key stakeholders, including government agencies, enterprises, shipping companies, and trade associations, emphasizing the importance of strict adherence to trade regulations.
Alkali urged all freight forwarders and enterprises operating in the OGFTZ to perfect their single goods declaration on pre-release approval within 14 days of transaction to maintain accurate records and ensure a seamless business environment.
“Adhering to this directive will enable the command to maintain accurate records and ensure a seamless business environment,” Alkali stated.
He further emphasized that his administration aims to create a business-friendly atmosphere while fostering stronger collaboration between stakeholders and the Nigeria Customs Service.
“The command’s goal is to foster a compliant and business-friendly atmosphere, promoting a stronger working relationship between stakeholders and the Nigeria Customs Service,” he added.
The Customs Comptroller also addressed concerns raised by various agencies, including, Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA; Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA; Nigeria Police Force, Eastern Ports Command
Nigeria Immigration Service in OGFTZ Command and Notore Petrochemical Company.
Alkali expressed a keen interest in resolving challenges that could hinder smooth operations within the Onne oil and gas free trade zone
“With this proactive approach, we aim to bolster economic activities in the Oil and Gas FTZ while ensuring compliance and efficient service delivery across all operational facets,” he assured.
Speaking on behalf of OGFZA’s Managing Director, the General Manager of Operations, Mr. Adekunle Ajayi, welcomed the new Customs Comptroller to the free zone and pledged full cooperation in achieving the set objectives.
