BARR. BELLO
The deployment of the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) has been highlighted as a critical step toward improving port efficiency and transparency in Nigeria. Barr. Hassan Bello, the former Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), emphasized its potential during an interview with SHIPPING DAY.
Bello urged stakeholders in the shipping industry to support the NSC in implementing the ICTN, citing its significance in enhancing transparency, generating vital data, and serving as a regulatory tool. According to him, ICTN requires that every cargo’s Bill of Lading includes the ICTN number, ensuring no cargo can be under-declared or concealed.
He noted that ICTN would boost revenue collection due to its transparency and allow relevant agencies like SON and NDLEA to access accurate information about the nature and quality of cargo without maintaining a physical presence at ports. Furthermore, Bello highlighted ICTN’s role in reducing port congestion by providing advance data on incoming cargo, enabling better planning by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and other stakeholders.
On trade facilitation, Bello called on the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to prioritize ICTN implementation, stating that it would align with a technology-driven approach to port operations. He also stressed the importance of the National Single Window system, which would streamline transactions and reduce the need for physical visits to the ports. Additionally, Bello advocated for 24-hour port operations and urged collaboration with Customs to achieve this goal.
His remarks align with those of Barr. Pius Akutah, the current Executive Secretary of the NSC, who announced plans to implement ICTN as an automated system to monitor cargo volume and type at seaports. Akutah noted that ICTN is a vital part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at diversifying Nigeria’s revenue sources and enhancing national security through efficient port operations.
ICTN promises to revolutionize Nigeria’s maritime sector, providing real-time data, boosting transparency, and contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
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