Cargo examination in Nigeria has undergone a massive transformation as of March 2026. The Trade Modernization Project (TMP) has successfully deployed over 67 AI-enabled scanners across major ports, including 22 new units arriving by Q3 2026. The goal is simple: reduce physical examination by 50%.
The Modern Examination Workflow
- Scanning First: Containers are moved directly from the vessel to the scanning bay. The AI analyzes the density and shapes inside the container against your Packing List.
- Image Analysis: If the scan matches your declaration, the cargo is flagged for “Immediate Release.”
- Targeted Physical Check: Only if the scanner detects an anomaly (e.g., undeclared machinery or suspicious densities) is the container moved to the physical examination bay.
Joint Agency Inspections
In 2026, you no longer wait for Customs, then NAFDAC, then SON. Under the National Single Window, all relevant agencies perform a single **Joint Inspection**. This prevents the same container from being opened multiple times, saving you days of delay.
Conclusion
The 2026 process rewards honesty. If your scan is clean, your cargo moves. For a list of red flags that trigger physical checks, see our post on Common Red Flags.