Blue Diamond Logistics Calls for Faster Port Debit Processing

Uzotex Bonded Terminal, a subsidiary of Blue Diamond Logistics China, has called for urgent reforms in the processing of debit notes at Nigerian ports. Chairman Festus Mbisiogu made this appeal during the 20th Anniversary Ceremony of Blue Diamond Logistics China in Lagos.

He stated that importers should not wait two or three days for additional payments required for cargo release, advocating for a processing time of one to two hours. Mbisiogu highlighted that while recent digital reforms by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have improved cargo tracking and reduced clearance times, unnecessary delays persist.

He argued that reducing these delays would enhance port efficiency, lower business costs, and prevent additional charges like storage and demurrage. He commended the NCS for its digital innovations that have improved cargo visibility and tracking, which have reduced clearance periods for some consignments from about one week to two to three days.

Mbisiogu urged the NCS to continue identifying and eliminating remaining bottlenecks in the cargo clearance process.