The Nigeria Customs Service has introduced a new automated passenger clearance system at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport aimed at reducing baggage delays and improving customs processing for international travelers.
The platform, known as the Simplified Customs Advanced Declaration System (SCADS), allows passengers to declare baggage and commercial goods electronically before arriving in Nigeria. The system is currently being tested as a pilot project at the airport’s international terminal in Abuja.
According to Customs officials, the initiative is designed to reduce manual bottlenecks, improve revenue assessment, and align airport operations with international digital standards.
The digital platform was developed after an earlier customs passenger processing system experienced technical difficulties earlier in 2026. Customs authorities said the new version was designed to provide stronger operational reliability and greater automation.
Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of ICT and Modernisation, Oluyomi Adebakin, said the agency viewed earlier technical failures as an opportunity to improve the system.
“When the earlier platform experienced operational challenges, we chose not to see it as a setback. We saw it as an opportunity to build something better, stronger and more efficient…For passengers, this system creates the opportunity for advance declaration before arrival. It means faster clearance, easier compliance and smoother movement through our airports” -Adebakin
Customs officials added that SCADS would automate tariff calculations using declared quantities and verified values, reducing human involvement in duty assessments as well as human bias from tariff calculations.
Stakeholders in the sector say the platform could improve efficiency, increase transparency in revenue collection, and modernize airport operations.
The pilot testing phase will continue through 22 May 2026, after which technical teams are expected to review performance and address any software issues.
The Nigeria Customs Service plans to expand the SCADS platform to other international airports nationwide to modernize border management and digital customs operations.
