The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) said it has successfully revamped its e-auction platform to embrace technology in ensuring that seized goods are disposed transparently.
The new platform accessible at https://auction.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng, has shown significant impact in leveraging technology towards an efficient and transparent disposal of seized and overtime goods, Abdullahi Maiwada, Chief Superintendent of Customs and National Public Relations Officer for the Comptroller General of Customs, said in a statement.
Since the platform’s relaunch on January 16, 2024, the Customs spokesman said that the e-auction platform has recorded “significant results” that include 1137 bids, 1099 registered applicants, 652 successfully paid administration fees.
Within the same time frame, the Nigeria Customs Service said that 100 vehicles uploaded on the window and 86 vehicles bided and won by users of the e-auction platform.
Maiwada said that winners are now able to download their certificates through a provided link in the confirmation email.
The NCS explained that these winners are expected to present their certificates where these goods are domiciled for a clearance process set to be completed within seven days.
In a bid to leverage technology, the platform has scheduled periodic auctions, opening every Tuesday from 12 noon to 6 pm, thereby providing the public with regular opportunities to select and bid for their desired items, according to the Customs Service.
For clarity on the e-auction process, interested persons 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.
Acknowledging occasional glitches reported by participants, the NCS assured the public that its dedicated technical team is actively addressing these issues.
The Customs Service said that the e-auction platform aligns with the newly-enacted Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
According to Maiwada, NCS 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.
