The Nigeria Customs Service announced on Friday that it has resumed the electronic auctioning of abandoned, confiscated cars and other items, including containerized consignments that have been sitting in ports for years.
BusinessDay reported that according to the National Public Relations Officer for Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, the redesigned e-auction platform was presented on Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
He stated that the platform will facilitate the transparent disposal of confiscated and excess commodities while also providing Nigerians with an equitable opportunity to participate.
Maiwada stated that the strategic decision is consistent with the criteria set in the newly approved Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and demonstrates the agency’s commitment to efficiency and fairness.
He continued, “Since its re-launch, the platform has recorded impressive results, including 1137 bids; 1099 registered applicants; 652 successfully paid administration fee; 100 vehicles uploaded on the window and 86 vehicles bided and won.”
He recommended successful bidders to download their winning certificates as soon as possible using the link supplied in the confirmation email, noting that winners must show the certificate where the items are domiciled, and that the clearance process should take no more than seven days.
According to him, the auctions are recurring, opening every Tuesday at 12noon to 6pm giving the public regular opportunities to select and bid for desired items.
“Interested participants can visit the NCS website for detailed information and guidelines on the e-auction process. People are also expected to direct any problems or complaints to the NCS Helpdesk, which is open Monday through Friday during working hours.
He promised the public that any early concerns will be remedied quickly to provide a smooth experience in all future exercises.
Maiwada stated that NCS will continue to prioritize openness, accessibility, and public participation through its revised e-auction platform, encouraging a fair and efficient procedure for disposing of confiscated and excess items.
