Comptroller Hassan pledges support for trade facilitation

The Customs Area Controller, Kaduna Area Command, Comptroller Sa’ad Hassan, has reiterated the service’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with terminal operators to enhance trade facilitation and revenue generation.

Hassan made the pledge during a familiarisation visit to the Kaduna Inland Dry Port (KIDP) and Skyblue Investment Bonded Terminal, according to a statement signed by Chief Superintendent of Customs Ridwan Yusuf, the Command’s Public Relations Officer.

The comptroller was accompanied by a team of senior officers, including the Director of Legal Services, Deputy Comptroller in charge of KIDP, Acting Deputy Comptroller of Excise, Acting Deputy Comptroller of Revenue, Assistant Comptroller of Valuation, and Team Leaders from the Customs Intelligence Unit.

During the visit, Hassan stressed the importance of teamwork, professionalism, and collaboration with stakeholders to drive the vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR. He emphasized the need for sustained efforts to improve trade facilitation, enhance compliance, and boost revenue generation through efficient operational synergy.

The Port Manager, Alhaji Razaq, welcomed the visit and highlighted key issues affecting the Kaduna Inland Dry Port, including the need to revive cargo movement via rail and train Customs-licensed agents on documentation procedures.

Similarly, Alhaji Kabir Tukur Birchi, Managing Director of Skyblue Investment Bonded Terminal, raised concerns about competitiveness and the sharp increase in bond value, citing the challenges posed by low cargo volume.

Responding to the concerns, Comptroller Hassan assured the management of both facilities that their issues would be addressed, pledging continued support to enhance operational efficiency and stakeholder confidence.

The visits were successful and ended on a positive note, with light refreshments and a group photograph taken at each location.