The World Customs Organisation (WCO) has commended Nigeria’s Time Release Study (TRS) as a practical, evidence-based reform that can enhance border efficiency, improve trade competitiveness, and strengthen national safety.
WCO Secretary-General Ian Saunders made the remarks on Monday during the presentation of the TRS report at Tin Can Island Port. He said the study provides Nigeria with “specific and objective insights” into its border clearance processes, highlighting areas where targeted improvements are needed.
“The findings of this study provide Nigeria with a clear opportunity to deliver measurable improvements that will strengthen both the economy and the safety of the country,” Saunders said.
The TRS, implemented with the support of the WCO Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme, translates reform goals into operational outcomes. Saunders noted that the tool, widely used by Customs administrations globally, improves transparency, predictability, and efficiency without compromising security.
He emphasized that effective trade facilitation requires collaboration among government agencies, the private sector, and the trading community. “Trade facilitation is not achieved by policy alone. It is realised through consistent, efficient and sound practices. The Time Release Study shows what is working, what is not, and where leadership and investment are required,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, described the TRS as a strategic instrument for measuring performance, identifying bottlenecks, and improving transparency across Nigeria’s trade ecosystem. She noted that efficient clearance processes are critical for investor confidence and economic growth.
“The Time Release Study is not merely a diagnostic exercise; it is a reform tool that supports smarter regulation, evidence-based decision-making and improved coordination across border agencies,” Uzoka-Anite said.
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, applauded the Nigeria Customs Service for taking the lead in addressing systemic bottlenecks. She said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to improving efficiency across the country’s trade ecosystem.
Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi said the study provides credible data on cargo dwell time, helping Customs and partner agencies identify procedural overlaps, eliminate delays, and streamline clearance processes.
“The Time Release Study allows us to move from assumptions to facts. It tells us exactly where time is lost and where reforms must be focused to achieve measurable improvements,” Adeniyi said, adding that faster clearance will be balanced with strict compliance and security standards.
The United Kingdom High Commission to Nigeria also commended the Customs Service for adopting WCO trade facilitation tools, including the TRS, which is supported by His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Strategic Research and Policy, Dera Nnadi, said the TRS report will guide operational adjustments, policy refinement, and infrastructure planning as the Service works with stakeholders to deliver a more predictable and efficient trade environment.