By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has begun a training programme focused on the use of Artificial Intelligence to improve revenue generation, remittances and reconciliation processes.
The exercise took place on Monday, April 13, 2026, at the Ladi Kwali Hall of the Abuja Continental Hotel. It attracted senior Customs officers, technology specialists and members of legislative oversight committees.
The presence of lawmakers alongside Customs officials highlights ongoing cooperation between the Service and the National Assembly. Both sides aim to improve accountability and introduce modern technology into public administration.
Speaking at the event, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to transparency in financial management through innovation.
“We are united in our resolve to ensure transparency in public accounting. Technology continues to evolve and plays an important role in strengthening our operations. It has also helped us better understand patterns in international trade,” he said.
He expressed confidence in the benefits of Artificial Intelligence for Customs operations. He also noted that the Service operates within a wider global trade system.
“We want to reap the benefits of Artificial Intelligence collectively. I encourage participants to actively engage the facilitators, ask questions and take full advantage of the training,” he added.
In her remarks, the Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Finance, Administration and Technical Services, Kikelomo Adeola, described the initiative as timely and strategic.
“This training reflects our commitment to national development. Artificial Intelligence is no longer a concept of the future; it is a technology we must embrace to strengthen our systems,” she said.
She explained that the programme aims to close gaps in revenue management and equip officers with the skills to use AI tools to protect public funds.
Adeola also acknowledged the attendance of lawmakers. She described it as a sign of shared responsibility in promoting transparency and accountability.
“This synergy is important. I encourage participants to ask relevant questions and exchange ideas that will enhance the effectiveness of this initiative,” she added.
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee, Bamidele Salam, praised the Customs Service for its reform efforts and focus on innovation.
“Customs is a global institution and plays a critical role in shaping Nigeria’s economic image. I commend the Comptroller-General for the progress made so far,” he said.
He described the training as necessary and noted that the use of Artificial Intelligence in Nigerian public institutions is still limited.
“We must continue to build capacity because the effectiveness of any system ultimately depends on the people who operate it,” he added.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Senate Public Accounts Committee, Senator Ahmed Aliyu, called for stronger collaboration to build durable systems for the future.
“All hands must be on deck. We must build systems that will endure and continue to serve the nation for years to come,” he said.
The programme featured a presentation by technology expert Bamidele Oyedeji. He highlighted how Artificial Intelligence can improve trade processes and operational efficiency within Customs administrations.
The initiative reflects the determination of the Nigeria Customs Service to adopt emerging technologies to strengthen revenue management, improve transparency and enhance overall performance.
