Customs KLT Command Strengthens Oil And Gas Sector Collaboration
By Naija Enquirer Staff
The Nigeria Customs Service, Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Command, has held strategic engagements with operators in the oil and gas sector to strengthen regulatory compliance and improve operational efficiency in vessel handling and jetty operations.
Comptroller E. J. Edelduok, the Customs Area Controller, described the sector as a key driver of national revenue and energy stability. She emphasized the importance of transparent documentation, accurate product accountability, and timely Customs procedures to ensure smooth discharge, storage, and evacuation of petroleum products.
According to her, the Command is committed to refining processes that encourage ease of doing business while safeguarding government revenue. She urged stakeholders to openly share operational challenges, pledging that the Command will continue to improve collaboration mechanisms.
Speaking during the meeting, Superintendent Emmanuel Okoka, Officer-in-Charge of Boarding, outlined mandatory Customs clearance rules for foreign vessels newly entering Nigeria. He stressed that it is compulsory for such vessels to berth at government-approved jetties before moving to private terminals, in order to ensure compliance, security, and accountability.
Discussions during the engagement focused on optimizing jetty discharge timelines, coordinating vessel movements, and improving the transfer of petroleum products to storage facilities. Stakeholders welcomed the Command’s collaborative posture and proposed the issuance of formal guidelines to standardize berthing and operational procedures.
Comptroller Edelduok reaffirmed the KLT Command’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and sustained cooperation with the oil and gas industry to guarantee seamless petroleum operations along the KLT corridor.
