The United States, US, has requested the assistance and partnership of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, on the construction of a new Consulate building, estimated to cost $319million (N133billion)
According to Deya Desouza, Project Director of the New Consulate Building, during her visit to Customs Headquarters in Abuja, yesterday, the proposed new US Consulate building, which will be covering 12.2 acres of reclaimed land, located in the Eko Atlantic Free Trade Zone, Lagos, would be a source of economic gain for Nigeria.
TheFact Nigeria gathers that plans are underway to use locally made goods in the country, and that about 7000 containers expected for the project will generate revenue for the State of Lagos and Nigeria as a whole. Consequently, this would engender vast job opportunities.
Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, in charge of Strategic Research and Policy, Bede Anyanwu, who represented the Comptroller General, CG, of Customs, gave his word to do their part in ensuring the seamless movement of goods for the purpose of the project.
He noted that ease of doing business and trade facilitation has been a major mandate for the Nigeria Customs Service.
‘‘Nigeria Customs is here to facilitate trade and I see some urgency in the venture you are going into. I can tell you that our processes and systems are there to help your intentions and desires. We have assembled officers that would give the necessary help you need for the documentation you require”, Anyanwu said.
He further explained that all shipments must be consigned to the Eco Atlantic Free Zone from wherever it comes, because that is where the project is. “If that is done, you would have the advantage of some expedite clearance since it’s going to the Free Trade Zone.”
The new US Consulate Compound in Lagos has been contracted to Pernix Federal, LLC and will be built on 12.2 acres on Avenue C In Eko Atlantic City. The compound will house multiple buildings, parking areas, warehouse, a recreation area, boat dock and access bridge.
