By Sabiu Abdullahi
At a press conference in Abuja, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), reported significant achievements in the past year, underscoring the agency’s commitment to aligning with the policy directives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Adeniyi highlighted notable improvements in revenue collection, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling efforts, and stakeholder collaboration.
The NCS reported a remarkable 74% increase in revenue collection, totaling N4.49 trillion between June 2023 and May 2024.
This substantial growth is a testament to the service’s enhanced efficiency and dedication to supporting Nigeria’s economic stability.
In addition to financial achievements, the NCS has successfully decongested ports and reopened critical access roads, facilitating smoother trade operations.
The introduction of a dedicated terminal for exports has further bolstered trade efficiency, leading to significant gains for the economy.
Adeniyi also stated the intensified efforts against smuggling, which have resulted in numerous notable seizures and arrests, demonstrating the NCS’s commitment to protecting society.
These efforts are complemented by improved collaboration with stakeholders, which has led to an 81.5% improvement in service reform indices, as reflected in the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) ranking.
During the press conference, Adeniyi reassured Nigerians that these measures are designed to benefit the nation’s well-being by facilitating trade, reducing costs, and improving revenue collection to support government initiatives.
He acknowledged challenges, such as exchange rate fluctuations, and noted the NCS’s commitment to addressing these issues.
The Comptroller-General expressed his appreciation for the support from President Tinubu, the Honourable Minister of Finance, and other stakeholders. He reaffirmed the NCS’s dedication to contributing to a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.
“This year has been transformative for the Nigeria Customs Service, and we are proud of the progress made in various areas. Our focus remains on enhancing trade, protecting our society, and ensuring that we continue to generate the necessary revenue to support national development,” Adeniyi stated.