NCS

 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.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The World Customs Organisation (WCO) has collaborated with the European Union (EU), the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation, and GIZ to launch a capacity-building program for the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS). 

The training, held from May 20 to May 31, 2024, focused on critical customs procedures such as Tariff Classification, Rules of Origin, and Customs Valuation. 

“The capacity building is divided into three stages: Intermediate, Advanced, and Training-of-Trainers (ToT), to ensure a thorough and progressive enhancement of skills among NCS officers,” said a WCO official. 

The training aimed to improve the implementation of Advance Ruling, a trade facilitation measure designed to bring certainty and transparency to Nigeria’s customs operations. 

“The WCO has supported the development of Standard Operational Procedures (SOPs) to guide the implementation of Advance Rulings, providing detailed guidelines on handling HS and RoO,” the official added. 

The initiative aims to create a more efficient and transparent customs environment in Nigeria, aligning with international standards and fostering greater trust and cooperation in global trade.

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.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced with deep sorrow the tragic passing of Customs Assistant II Auwal Haruna. 

According to a statement signed on Wednesday by Abdullahi Maiwada, Chief Superintendent of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, the unfortunate incident occurred during a confrontation at the Gamji Makaho checkpoint in the Dankama area of Katsina State on the morning of April 17, 2024. 

The altercation arose when a team of customs officers from the Katsina Area Command sought to intercept a convoy of over fifty vehicles suspected of transporting goods illegally outside the country.

Displaying commendable courage, Haruna and his colleagues confronted the suspected economic saboteurs, leading to a clash with an enraged mob. Haruna was viciously attacked and fatally assaulted during the confrontation.

He has since been laid to rest according to Islamic rites in his hometown of Kayawa, in the Dutsi Local Government Area of Katsina State. 

The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, along with the entire NCS fraternity, extends heartfelt condolences to the family of CA II Auwal Haruna.

The CGC vehemently condemns the senseless act of violence that resulted in Haruna’s untimely demise and assures the public of a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served. 

Stating the daily challenges faced by customs officers in safeguarding the nation’s borders, the CGC shows the NCS’s unwavering commitment to stand with the fallen officer’s family during this period of profound grief. 

Despite the tragic loss, the NCS remains resolute in its mission to combat illegal activities, particularly smuggling, and continues to prioritise Nigeria’s border integrity while ensuring the safety of citizens and dedicated customs personnel.

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.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has convened a crucial steering committee meeting aimed at consolidating the strides made in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Trade Modernization Project (TMP), focused on enhancing trade facilitation through technological innovations. 

Held behind closed doors at the Customs Corporate Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, February 15, 2024, the meeting brought together members of the TMP Steering Committee, underscoring the strategic importance attached to advancing digital solutions within the NCS. 

CGC Adeniyi unveiled the overarching objectives of the Trade Modernization Project, emphasising its pivotal role in driving end-to-end automation of customs processes and procedures.

He delineated key components of the project, including the Unified Customs Management System, Trade Portal, Cargo Release System, and Automation Services such as Big Data & AI Integration and Document Management System. 

“This project signifies a milestone in our journey towards digital transformation, heralding a new era of transparency, efficiency, and effectiveness in customs operations,” remarked the CGC, highlighting the imperative of adapting to evolving market dynamics and unlocking revenue streams through digitization. 

Addressing the TMP Steering Committee, CGC Adeniyi underscored the project’s long-term vision, spanning twenty years and encompassing three distinct phases aimed at enhancing core services, implementing automation solutions, and facilitating seamless transition and handback processes. 

“We are poised to tackle prevailing challenges, make informed decisions, and chart a trajectory of progress for the service,” affirmed the CGC, expressing optimism regarding the committee’s capacity to navigate complexities and drive impactful outcomes. 

Echoing the sentiment of unwavering support, Saleh Ahmadu, Chairman of the Trade Modernization Project Limited, reaffirmed his team’s commitment to bolstering the NCS’s revenue generation efforts.

Ahmadu stated the development of software solutions geared towards integrating revenue collection systems, thereby advancing the NCS’s ambitious revenue target of N6 trillion for 2024. 

“As lifelong partners to the Nigeria Customs Service, we remain steadfast in our commitment to revolutionizing trade facilitation in Nigeria,” Ahmadu asserted, underscoring the proactive approach adopted by the steering committee in driving tangible progress.