NCS

By Muhammad Sulaiman

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has dismissed as false a viral social media post claiming to reveal the number of shortlisted candidates per state for the final stage of its 2025 recruitment exercise.

In a public disclaimer, the Service clarified that the publication did not originate from any of its official communication channels and urged the public, especially applicants, to disregard the information entirely.

According to the NCS, the ongoing recruitment process began with an official advertisement on December 27, 2024, attracting a total of 573,523 applications across the Superintendent, Inspectorate, and Customs Assistant cadres. After an initial documentary screening, 286,697 candidates were shortlisted for the first phase of the Computer-Based Test (CBT).

The Service further explained that while all cadres took part in the CBT, only successful applicants under the Superintendent Cadre were invited for the second phase, which will be conducted across the six geopolitical zones in line with candidates’ states of origin.

The NCS reaffirmed its commitment to a transparent, fair, and merit-driven recruitment process, in accordance with the Federal Character principle. It also advised applicants to rely solely on official updates via the NCS Recruitment Update Portal at https://updates.customs.gov.ng for verified information.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) have pledged to work together to advance ethical standards, professionalism, and effective communication in the field of public relations.

This commitment followed a courtesy visit by the National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, to the NIPR FCT Secretariat in Abuja on May 16, 2025.

Maiwada, who was accompanied by a team from the Public Relations Unit of the NCS, stated that the engagement was intended to build stronger institutional relationships and encourage the exchange of knowledge between the Service and the professional body.

“We believe that excellence and professionalism should be the hallmark of our practice of Public Relations in the Nigeria Customs Service and beyond,” he said.

He also noted that the unit he leads is powered by youthful determination and the consistent support of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.

In his response, the NIPR FCT Chapter Chairman, Stanley Ogadigo, applauded the NCS for its efforts in public communication, especially under the current leadership.

“We’re glad that the Comptroller-General of Customs has not disappointed us. He’s doing a great job and remains a shining example,” Ogadigo said.

He also gave assurance of the NIPR’s commitment to supporting projects aimed at raising standards in public sector public relations.

According to him, areas of cooperation would include capacity building, joint advocacy, and corporate social responsibility.During the meeting, participants explored opportunities for training, professional development, and ways to respond to the fast-changing media environment with improved public communication strategies.

Both organizations restated their commitment to continuous learning and to boosting the trustworthiness of public institutions through responsible and strategic public relations practices.

The engagement concluded with mutual assurance from both the NCS and NIPR FCT Chapter to explore beneficial partnerships that would enhance communication across the public sector.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully completed a three-day workshop focused on equipping its Public Relations personnel with essential skills in digital communication and media strategy.

The training, which held from May 7 to 9, 2025, at the NCS Headquarters in Abuja, was organised in partnership with Youth Digest.

The hybrid event brought together Public Relations Officers from various Commands, as well as reporters, editors, and staff from the PR Unit.

The sessions covered several key areas including digital engagement, strategic communication, content creation, and media innovation.

Participants also explored topics such as editorial workflows, inclusive language, house style development, visual storytelling, design principles, and media law.

In his keynote address, delivered by Assistant Comptroller-General Isah Umar, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, underscored the importance of effective communication in achieving the Service’s modernisation goals and improving public engagement.

“Today marks a key step in the development of officers charged with promoting the Nigeria Customs Service,” ACG Umar stated. “Capacity building is essential. I urge our younger officers to learn from the expertise of the professionals gathered here.”

National Public Relations Officer and Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, who actively participated in the training, advised attendees to remain committed to learning and self-improvement.

“This training is vital. Knowledge is endless, and we must seize every opportunity to grow. What we’ve learned here can greatly enhance our professional effectiveness,” he said.

“In the past three days, we’ve shared valuable insights. Let’s apply these lessons to improve both ourselves and the Service.”

The workshop ended with a certificate ceremony acknowledging the participants’ dedication to enhancing their professional skills.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Fifty officers of the Nigeria Customs Service have successfully completed the Junior Course 21 at the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College (NCCSC), Gwagwalada.

The intensive three-month programme was designed to boost the management capacity of mid-level officers within the Service.

Activities marking the end of the course began with a regimental dinner held on Wednesday, 30 April 2025.

The formal graduation ceremony followed two days later, taking place on Friday, 2 May 2025, at the Ahmad Makarfi Hall within the College premises.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, was represented at both events by Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG) Suleiman Chiroma, who is in charge of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC).

In his address to the graduating officers, DCG Chiroma praised their dedication and resilience.

He encouraged them to remain steadfast in the values of discipline, integrity, and professionalism.

“The College has equipped you with the requisite knowledge for higher staff and command responsibilities,” he said. “Your value to the Service and your fatherland has been greatly enhanced, and you are now better prepared to contribute meaningfully to the attainment of our strategic objectives.”

Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Oluyomi Adebakin, who serves as the College’s Commandant, also spoke at the event. She congratulated the officers and reminded them of the institution’s high standards.

“The Nigeria Customs Service has invested significantly in your development. You must make the most of this opportunity. The College maintains zero tolerance for indiscipline and mediocrity will not be celebrated,” she stated.

The ceremony featured the award of certificates and the conferment of the Passed Junior Staff Course (PJSC) qualification on the officers.

The graduates expressed appreciation for the training, noting its positive impact on their leadership and operational skills.

The officers are now expected to assume key responsibilities across various commands and units, contributing to the Service’s national mandate.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the implementation of a Presidential Executive Order aimed at strengthening local production of healthcare products, which will reduce the cost of medical equipment and consumables.

According to the NCS, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the guidelines for this initiative through the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Olawale Edun.As part of the directive, the government has granted a two-year exemption from import duty and Value Added Tax (VAT) on essential raw materials used in pharmaceutical production.

These include Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), excipients, and other key materials required for manufacturing essential medicines, Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs), Rapid Diagnostic Kits, reagents, and packaging materials.

To ensure that only qualified manufacturers benefit from these incentives, eligibility is restricted to pharmaceutical producers recognised by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

Additionally, such manufacturers must possess a valid Tax Identification Number (TIN).In a move to enhance transparency and accountability, the NCS will generate quarterly reports detailing all importations under the policy.

These reports will include information on importers, quantities, and the value of imported items to ensure proper oversight.Reaffirming its commitment to supporting government policies, the NCS emphasised its role in trade facilitation, border security, and national development.

It also called on all stakeholders, including importers, manufacturers, and relevant government agencies, to collaborate in ensuring the success of this initiative.

“The successful implementation of this policy requires collaboration from all stakeholders, including importers, manufacturers, and relevant government agencies. Through our collective efforts, we can achieve the shared goal of a robust healthcare sector that meets the needs of all Nigerians,” the statement read.

 By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has teamed up with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to host a workshop on “Gender Diversity” at the Old Federal Secretariat in Garki, Abuja.

The event, which began on Monday, October 28, 2024, reaffirms Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi’s commitment to creating a work environment where every officer thrives, regardless of gender. 

Chief Superintendent of Customs Zara Musa, representing Deputy Comptroller-General Caroline Niagwan, emphasized the workshop’s importance in fostering a workplace with equal opportunities for growth and success.

“This workshop will pave the way for officers to contribute fully to the Service’s success, regardless of gender. CGC Adeniyi remains committed to nurturing a gender-inclusive environment within the NCS,” Musa stated. 

This initiative follows a previous capacity-building session in April 2024 on gender inclusivity, demonstrating CGC Adeniyi’s efforts to advance gender equality across the Service.

“These initiatives form a series of efforts under CGC Adeniyi’s tenure aimed at advancing gender equality across the Service, promoting a culture where diverse perspectives contribute to enhanced Customs operations,” the National Contact Point added. 

Jennifer Goistene Burs from the WCO highlighted the strategic impact of gender inclusivity on service delivery.

“We are committed to supporting the Nigeria Customs Service in finalizing the draft action plan on Gender Equality and Diversity, which was developed following the sub-regional workshop organized in April,” she said.

Experts Sendra Chihaka from Zimbabwe and Johanna Tornstrom also shared insights on fostering a supportive workplace culture. 

The WCO has been actively promoting gender equality and diversity in customs administrations globally, providing tools and resources to support its members.

This collaborative effort between the NCS and WCO aims to strengthen inclusivity and empower officers to contribute to the Service’s success.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched B’Odogwu, a revolutionary Unified Customs Management System, commencing with a pilot phase in Lagos at Port & Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML).

This innovative platform represents a significant milestone in Nigeria Customs’ modernisation journey, aligning with global best practices. 

Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, noted the significance of B’Odogwu, stating, “B’Odogwu is our new customs management system that embodies our vision for a paperless customs administration that facilitates seamless trade while maintaining robust security measures.”

He noted that B’Odogwu will eventually replace the current Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II) as the NCS Legacy System. 

The system’s development acknowledges the forthcoming National Single Window and will integrate with it upon implementation by the Federal Government.

Adeniyi revealed the legal framework supporting the initiative, citing sections 28 and 29 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, which empower the Service to develop, maintain, and employ electronic systems while ensuring transparency and stakeholder consultation. 

Adeniyi urged stakeholders to embrace the change optimistically, providing constructive feedback to refine and improve the system. “B’Odogwu will enhance our ability to streamline end-to-end business processes, provide stakeholders with customised integration capabilities, support more efficient and intelligent business decisions, and facilitate ease of doing business,” he said.

The Comptroller General expressed gratitude to terminal operators, customs officers, licensed customs agents, and the Trade Modernisation Project team for their support. He charged PTML command officers to take training seriously, as they will implement the system in other commands. 

The Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) has declared support for the initiative, acknowledging the transformation of the clearing profession.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has announced key management appointments and redeployments within the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) following the statutory retirement of some management team members.

BM Jibo has been appointed as Acting Deputy Comptroller General of Finance Administration and Technical Services (FATS), while OA Alajogun takes on the role of Acting Deputy Comptroller General of Enforcement, Inspection and Investigation (EI&I).

IG Umar has been redeployed as Acting Assistant Comptroller General of Headquarters, OA Salefu as Acting Assistant Comptroller General of Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), BA Makinde as Acting Assistant Comptroller General of Human Resource Development (HRD), and T Bomodi as Acting Assistant Comptroller General of Enforcement, Inspection and Investigation (EI&I).

The appointments, made in acting capacity, aim to enhance strategic service delivery and are a testament to the officers’ exemplary services and dedication to the NCS.

Adeniyi congratulated the newly appointed officers, charging them to “redouble their efforts to ensure the Service achieves greater heights in its mandates of revenue generation, suppression of smuggling and trade facilitation.”

The Comptroller General also thanked the retired members of the management for their meritorious services.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has pledged to strengthen its partnership with the Defence Research and Development Bureau (DRDB) to enhance security presence at borderlines across the country.

Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, made this commitment on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, when he received a delegation from the DRDB led by Major General Emmanuel Ndagi. 

Adeniyi stated the importance of leveraging technological advancements to achieve economic growth, stating, “I see a lot of possibilities that will continue to evolve between the Nigeria Customs Service and DRDB in the area of technology because we live in the age of technology now.” 

He highlighted the NCS’s commitment to research and development, saying, “We believe that any organisation that ignores research and developments might be digging its own grave… We have set up a structure devoted to our special intelligence, and a Command and Staff College, where we engage our students in periodic research and operations.” 

Major General Ndagi, Director-General of DRDB, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “Addressing these challenges with compassion and jointly developing technologies that address border security concerns will help us to fortify our border areas.” 

The partnership aims to combat border crimes using geospatial intelligence and coordinate significant operations at border areas across the federation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, in a bid to enhance service delivery and combat cross-border crimes, met with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Washington, DC, on July 18, 2024.

The meeting aimed to revive the over-decade-old Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement (CMAA) and promote global collaborations and data-driven decision-making. Adeniyi stated the importance of capacity building, particularly in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) enforcement and opiate issues.

He also stressed the need for a Center for Advanced Cargo and Passenger Data Analysis to mitigate risks and enhance cargo and passenger security. 

The meeting also covered commercial air cargo security and potential partnerships with US government agencies.

Adeniyi stated the importance of future operations, including CBP’s global targeting advisory directors and their capabilities in information sharing on cargo and passenger sides. 

James Collins, Assistant Commissioner of the Office of International Affairs at US CBP, noted data integration, partnerships, and targeted efforts to address transnational criminal groups.

He stressed the need for secure channels for sharing intelligence and building partnerships with international organizations. 

Key action items identified include establishing specific channels for continued intelligence sharing between Nigeria Customs and CBP, exploring operational partnerships, and leveraging INTERPOL programmes. 

The meeting concluded with a presentation on artificial intelligence and its role in enhancing customs operations and security. 

In a related event, CGC Adeniyi visited the Nigerian Embassy in the USA, where he was received by Mr. Rabiu Lawal, Charge d’Affaires a.i., and his team.

The CGC appreciated their warm reception and efforts for Nigerians in the diaspora. 

This bilateral meeting marks a significant step in strengthening global partnerships to promote better service delivery and enhance national security for Nigerians.