The newly appointed Acting Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi has promised that under his administration, the NCS will undergo a remarkable transformation that will redefine Customs practices for the better.
Prior to his appointment, Adewale was attending the 141st/142nd World Customs Organization (WCO) Conference and Council Meeting at the WCO Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium where PORTS & BORDERS gathered he sought the support of the World Customs Organisation, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Japan Customs Administration for the establishment of a laboratory towards enhancing customs operations and trade facilitation across Nigeria.
The laboratory according to a statement by Customs spokesman, Abdullahi Maiwada, will provide comprehensive solutions to address challenges such as counterfeit goods, smuggling, and non-compliant imports, thereby bolstering revenue generation and ensuring the protection of public health and safety. With its advanced analytical capabilities, the laboratory is expected to deliver precise identification, verification, and classification of goods, enabling efficient enforcement measures and informed decision-making, while fostering an environment of trust and credibility within Nigeria’s trade ecosystem.
“With a strong focus on collaboration, engagement with international organizations, the pursuit of cutting-edge technologies, and consolidating on previous gains, the NCS is poised to redefine customs practices for the better,” Maiwada said.
“Additionally, the NCS has already established a GEOINT (geospatial intelligence) unit, leveraging geospatial data, mapping techniques, and satellite imagery to gain valuable insights for Customs operations. Collaborative engagements are already underway to operationalise the use of GEOINT to enhance the efficiency of NCS enforcement operations and contribute to overall efficiency. These advancements underline the NCS’s proactive approach toward embracing cutting-edge technologies.”
The acting CG also engaged in fruitful discussions with relevant experts and donors, focusing on areas such as conducting a Time Release Study (TRS), implementing the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and leadership and management development. The discussions underline his commitment to comprehensive improvements and his inclination to adopt innovative solutions across various customs domains, ultimately enhancing customs operations.
Maiwada said under the leadership of the Acting CG, the Nigeria Customs Service embarks on an exciting journey towards enhanced customs efficiency. Through international collaborations, engagement with the WCO, exploration of AI-driven solutions, and strategic discussions, the NCS pioneers innovative projects that will shape the future of customs practices in Nigeria.
“With a strong emphasis on technology and international partnerships, the NCS is well-positioned to make substantial advancements in customs operations, benefiting trade facilitation, security, and operational effectiveness,” he said.
Recall that PORTS & BORDERS had reported the highlights of the Policy Commission and Council meetings of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) held in Brussels, Belgium were Ian Saunders from the United States was elected as the new Secretary General of the WCO while South African Edward Kieswetter was elected as Chairperson of WCO Council. These important positions sets the direction for Customs practices worldwide and highlights the significant role played by the NCS in shaping the future of Customs operations on a global scale.
