By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has restated the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation, trade relations and border security through closer engagement with diplomatic missions and customs administrations across the world.
Adeniyi made the remarks during a diplomatic cocktail reception hosted by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at its headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.
The event attracted ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of diplomatic missions, senior government officials and security chiefs. Among those in attendance were the Chief of the Air Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, members of the Customs Management Team and representatives of key government agencies.
Speaking at the gathering, the Customs boss expressed appreciation to Nigeria’s international partners for their support in promoting diplomatic and trade relations.
“We recognize and appreciate your contributions to strengthening diplomatic and trade relations. The Service remains committed to providing the support and services required for diplomatic missions to operate effectively in Nigeria,” Adeniyi stated.
He said the NCS has expanded its global engagement through formal collaboration arrangements with more than 20 customs administrations worldwide. According to him, the partnerships are focused on capacity building, knowledge exchange and operational cooperation aimed at improving trade facilitation and border management.
Adeniyi noted that stronger cooperation among customs authorities, diplomatic missions and security agencies has become essential as countries confront evolving challenges in international trade, border security and regulatory compliance.
He also stressed that customs operations now take place within a highly interconnected global system that depends on trust, regular engagement and shared responsibility among stakeholders.
The CGC described the reception as a valuable opportunity to deepen relationships, encourage dialogue and identify new areas of cooperation that will strengthen Nigeria’s trade and diplomatic objectives.
Participants at the event commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its efforts to build stronger institutional partnerships and promote international cooperation that supports economic development.
The reception highlighted the growing role of the NCS in advancing Nigeria’s trade diplomacy agenda while strengthening strategic partnerships that contribute to national security, revenue generation and sustainable economic growth.
