By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) commenced a 2-day ICT—Modernization Management Retreat in Abuja, spearheaded by the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi. The event, which began on Friday, March 1, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the service’s journey towards digital transformation.
In his address to attendees, CGC Bashir Adewale stated the imperative of embracing technology to enhance customs operations.
He stressed the need for collaboration with stakeholders to ensure the seamless execution of the modernization project, citing the demand for efficiency and transparency from stakeholders. CGC Adeniyi urged his Management Team, particularly in ICT, to lead the digitalization efforts and utilize internal resources to expedite the implementation of the electronic cargo tracking system.
He noted the importance of modernizing every aspect of the Customs Enforcement Ecosystem to fortify operations. Alhaji Saleh Ahmadu, Chairman of Trade Modernization Project Limited, commended the CGC’s commitment to modernization, recognising the pivotal role of trade in national development.
He expressed optimism that the initiative would revolutionise NCS operations, facilitating trade across Nigeria and the African continent.
Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of ICT/Modernization, ACG Kikelomo Adeola, lauded the CGC’s dedication to the modernization project, emphasising its significance in reshaping and digitising NCS activities. She welcomed participants to the retreat.