The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced plans to begin 100% scanning of all cargo entering the country through Onne Port in Rivers State as part of efforts to strengthen border security, improve cargo monitoring, and prevent the importation of prohibited goods, including arms, ammunition and illicit pharmaceuticals.
The initiative will deploy non-intrusive inspection technology to pre-scan every consignment arriving at the port, with cargo images transmitted to the NCS headquarters in Abuja for further analysis where necessary. The move follows the service’s ongoing rollout of full cargo scanning at Apapa Port in Lagos, where officials say the technology has already begun supporting customs operations.
Speaking at a media briefing in Port Harcourt ahead of the 2026 Public Relations Week, the NCS said the enhanced inspection process forms part of broader reforms aimed at improving trade facilitation while tightening security across Nigeria’s seaports, Brandspur Banking News Desk reports.
The customs service explained that the emergency surveillance measures introduced at Onne Port in 2024 after the interception of illegal arms and narcotics remain focused on intensified monitoring rather than disrupting legitimate import and clearance activities. According to the agency, the port continues to receive heightened operational attention because of its strategic importance to national security.
Customs also noted that resistance to the transition towards technology-driven inspections is expected from some stakeholders, but maintained that the adoption of advanced scanning systems is essential to improving transparency, reducing physical examinations and strengthening risk management across Nigeria’s ports.
Beyond cargo inspections, the service reiterated its commitment to closer collaboration with the media to promote public trust, improve awareness of ongoing reforms and support its mandate of facilitating legitimate trade while safeguarding Nigeria’s borders. It added that stronger communication with stakeholders remains critical to advancing economic development, protecting communities from harmful imports and enhancing institutional accountability.
