By Sylvanus OBASI, Lagos
In pursuit of its commitment to continuous improvement, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has unveiled its revamped e-auction platform on Tuesday, 16 January 2024. This strategic move aligns with the guidelines outlined in the newly enacted Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, showcasing the agency’s dedication to efficiency and fairness.
Platform Reporters gathered that the new platform, accessible at https://auction.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng, is an upgraded version of the previous portal designed to provide Nigerians with an equal opportunity to participate.
Since its relaunch, the platform has recorded impressive results, including: 1137 number of bids, 1099 registered applicants, 652 successfully paid administration fee, 100 vehicles uploaded on the window, 86 vehicles bided and won.
The NCS emphasizes that successful bidders should promptly download their winning certificates through the provided link in the confirmation email.
Subsequently, winners are required to present the certificate where the goods are domiciled, and the clearance process is expected to be done within seven days.
It is also pertinent to note that the auctions are periodic and 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 at www.customs.gov.ng. Any concerns or complaints can be directed to the NCS Helpdesk at 07037891156, operational from Mondays to Fridays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
“While we acknowledge occasional glitches reported by participants, potentially attributed to high traffic, our 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, NCS stated in its press statement issued recently.
Adding that the agency remains 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.
