At last, Customs resumes e-auction of cars, overtime goods

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) said on Friday that it has finally resumed the electronic auctioning of abandoned, seized cars as well as other goods including the containerised consignments that have stayed for long in the ports for years.

A statement by Abdullahi Maiwada, national public relations officer of Customs, said the revamped e-auction platform of Customs was unveiled on Tuesday, 16 January 2024.

Read also: Customs to reopen e-auction portal next week

He said the revamped e-auction platform will ensure transparent disposal of seized and overtime goods and also provide Nigerians with an equal opportunity to participate.

Maiwada said the strategic move aligns with the guidelines outlined in the newly enacted Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and showcases the agency’s dedication to efficiency and fairness.

“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 explained.

He advised successful bidders to promptly download their winning certificates through the provided link in the confirmation email, adding that winners are required to present the certificate where the goods are domiciled, and the clearance process is expected to be done within seven days.

According to him, the auctions are periodic, and it opens every Tuesday from 12 noon to 6 pm, providing the public with regular opportunities to select and bid for desired items.

“For comprehensive details and guidelines on the e-auction process, interested participants are encouraged to visit the NCS website. People are also expected to direct any concerns or complaints can be directed to the NCS Helpdesk, which is operational from Mondays to Fridays during work hours.

“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,” he said.

Maiwada said that NCS will remain 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.