By Kingsley Unah
In pursuit of its commitment to continuous improvement, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has unveiled its revamped e-auction platform beginning Tuesday, 16 January, 2024.
A statement conveyed by the Service Director of information, Maiwada Abdullahi, said this strategic move aligns with the guidelines outlined in the newly enacted Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, showcasing the agency’s dedication to efficiency and fairness.
He stated that the new platform is accessible at https://auction.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng, and it is an upgraded version of the previous portal designed to provide Nigerians with an equal opportunity to participate.
Maiwada said, since its re-launch, the platform has recorded impressive results, including:
1137 number of bids, 1099 registered applicants, 652 successfully paid administration fee, 100 vehicles uploaded on the window and 86 vehicles bided and won.
According to the Director, the Service emphasized that successful bidders should promptly download their winning certificates through the provided link in the confirmation email.
He said subsequent, winners are required to present the certificate where the goods are domiciled, and the clearance process is expected to be done within seven days.
Abdullahi stated that the auctions are periodic and open every Tuesdays, from 12 noon to 6pm, providing the public with regular opportunities to select and bid for desired items. Maiwada reminded that for comprehensive details and guidelines on the e-auction process, interested participants are encouraged to visit the NCS website at www.customs.gov.ng.
“While we acknowledge occasional glitches reported by participants, potentially attributed to high traffic, our dedicated technical team is actively addressing the situation. We assure the public that initial issues will be swiftly resolved to ensure a seamless experience in all subsequent exercises,” Abdullahi said.
He said the 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 he concluded.