Authors : Olugbenga F. Akomolehin; Bolawale V. Akomolehin; Famoroti Ilesanmi

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 8 - August

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/yvtujskb

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/mrjftdcf

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26aug011

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Efficient port operations are central to lowering trade costs and enhancing competitiveness in developing economies. This study examines how customs procedures and inter-agency coordination influence port efficiency and trade facilitation at Nigeria’s three major seaports—Apapa, Tin Can Island, and Onne. Using a qualitative policy review and comparative case study design, the research analyses documentary evidence from WTO, UNCTAD, World Bank, and national regulatory agencies alongside case-based insights from port operations. Findings reveal that severe congestion, prolonged cargo dwell time, and logistical bottlenecks at Lagos ports stem from infrastructural deficits, complex documentation processes, limited scanning capacity, and inconsistent application of risk management. Inter-agency fragmentation among the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), NIMASA, SON, NDLEA, and terminal operators further compounds delays through duplicative inspections and poor information sharing. In contrast, Onne Port demonstrates more streamlined procedures, reduced congestion, and stronger operational coordination. Assessment of Nigeria’s alignment with WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement provisions shows progress in documentation transparency and electronic payment but highlights persistent gaps in coordinated border management and risk-based clearance. The study contributes to port governance literature by offering an integrated, comparative analysis of customs, logistics, and institutional dynamics across Nigeria’s leading ports. It recommends targeted reforms, including process simplification, enhanced scanning and ICT systems, strengthened joint inspections, and differentiated strategies for Lagos and Onne to improve national trade facilitation outcomes.

Keywords : Trade Facilitation, Port Efficiency, Cargo Dwell Time, Customs Procedures, Coordinated Border Management, WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).

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