NCS debunks rumour on auctioning of 7000 vehicles

By Matthew Denis, Abuja

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has restated that its electronic auction (e-auction) platform is functional and remains the only authentic means of auctioning goods to members of the public.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the service, Mr. Bomod T. and made available to Nigerian NewsDirect on Monday.

According to the statement, the reminder is pertinent in light of rumours making the rounds that a special auction of over 7000 vehicles will soon be held by the NCS.

The statement reads, “We wish to state that auctions are periodic and advertised in advance on our website to avail members of the public the opportunity of selecting and bidding for items of their choice.

“It will be recalled that the Service deployed the e-auction platform in July 2017 specifically to improve efficiency in revenue generation to the Federal Government, as well as provide equal opportunities to all Nigerians in the seamless disposal of seized,condemned and overtime abandoned cargoes.

“Since its implementation the e-auction has lived up to expectations by guaranteeing transparency and integrity in the auctioning process.

“Requirements to take part in the e-auction bidding process by interested public/bidders include, Applicant must have a valid tax identification number (TIN) issued by Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) with an active e-mail account for the issued TIN. Conditions and Terms of this auction are to be carefully considered by an interested person before acceptance themselves of the VlN-Valuation protocols automated and made user friendly the clearance procedure.”