Nigeria Customs Service

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has stepped up efforts to curb illicit financial activities and terrorism financing through a sensitisation programme on Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT). The event took place at the Service Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.

The programme was held on Monday, 4 May 2026. It formed part of the agency’s first-quarter operational review and training exercise for officers attached to the AML/CFT Unit. The session focused on building capacity, promoting ethical conduct and improving cooperation with relevant agencies.

During the programme, the Assistant Comptroller-General in charge of Headquarters, Muhammad Shuaibu, said the initiative shows the rising importance of AML/CFT operations within the Service and across Nigeria’s financial and security system. He explained that the Unit’s work goes beyond ports and border points. He added that its performance in the past year has made it a key player in protecting the country’s financial system.

Shuaibu also pointed to recent progress in Nigeria’s financial sector. He said bank cards issued in Nigeria now function globally and allow users to carry out transactions abroad with automatic currency conversion.

“This is a major milestone. Nigerians can now travel and use their cards anywhere in the world, with transactions reflecting the local currency. This is a significant achievement for the nation,” he said.

He advised officers to view postings to the AML/CFT Unit as an opportunity for career development. He also mentioned ongoing collaboration with the World Customs Organization to ensure compliance with international standards.

In his remarks, the Acting Provost Marshal, Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Saulawa Sunusi, called for discipline and professionalism among officers.

“Officers must remain disciplined, professional, and committed to ethical conduct. Integrity remains the foundation of everything we do,” he said.

Sunusi urged personnel to improve their skills through regular training. He asked them to show leadership through good conduct and maintain fairness and punctuality in their duties. He also stressed the need for teamwork and proper conflict resolution within the Service.

Participants were advised to stay alert, maintain high morale and perform their duties without bias. They were warned against sharing sensitive information without authorisation and asked to follow official communication procedures strictly.

The programme also featured a lecture by Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Faisal Abubakar, who spoke on service correspondence and its role in official communication.

In a separate address, the National Coordinator of AML/CFT, Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Mas’ud Salihu, said financial crimes are becoming more complex. He noted that many illegal activities are now taking place in digital and virtual spaces.

Salihu explained that efforts are ongoing to strengthen enforcement, identify operational gaps and improve communication between field officers and management. He said sensitisation remains vital in tackling financial crimes and encouraged officers to stay proactive in detecting new threats.

He commended participants for their active involvement and thanked the Service leadership for its continued support in strengthening the AML/CFT framework.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has held talks with officials of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Embassy in Abuja to boost trade relations and deepen customs cooperation between both countries.

The meeting took place on April 29, 2026. Both sides restated their commitment to improving bilateral trade and enhancing collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and its UAE counterpart.

During the engagement, the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Salem Saeed, congratulated Adeniyi on his emergence as Chairman of the World Customs Organization (WCO). He described the development as a major achievement for Nigeria and the African continent.

The ambassador commended the leadership of the Customs boss and his team. He said their efforts have strengthened ties between both nations, especially in the area of non-oil trade.

“We have achieved a substantial increase in non-oil trade from the year 2023 to 2025. Despite the challenges over the years, this remains one of the best relationships we have had,” the Ambassador said.

He revealed that a Memorandum of Understanding has already been forwarded. He explained that the agreement is meant to improve cooperation in trade facilitation and customs administration.

The envoy also described Adeniyi as one of the most valued guests received by the embassy. He added that the Customs management team has played a key role in sustaining Nigeria’s trade growth.

In his response, Adeniyi appreciated the reception and expressed confidence in the future of the partnership. He said the meeting would open a new phase in the relationship between Nigeria and the UAE.

“We are happy to work with the UAE to show the true nature of trade. We also want to make trade easier, especially for SMEs, and use your embassy to bring Customs administrations together,” Adeniyi stated.

The Customs boss noted that trade between both countries has improved in the past two years. He assured that the Nigeria Customs Service will continue to engage stakeholders to improve efficiency and support legitimate trade.

He also called for closer cooperation to address activities that harm Nigeria’s image abroad. He said such collaboration would strengthen security, build trust, and support economic growth.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Nigeria and Malaysia have taken fresh steps to reinforce cooperation between their customs authorities, with a focus on improving trade processes and tightening border control systems.

This followed a series of high-level meetings in Malaysia involving the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD).

The engagements took place during an official visit by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to the RMCD headquarters. The visit coincided with his attendance at the Defence Services Asia (DSA) Malaysia 2026 event.

Adeniyi was hosted by his Malaysian counterpart, Director-General Dato’ Haji Amran bin Haji Ahmad. Both officials held discussions that centred on strengthening institutional ties, advancing customs modernisation, and improving coordination in border management.

Trade relations between the two countries have continued to expand in recent years. Nigeria’s imports from Malaysia rose from ₦159.9 billion in 2020 to ₦716.0 billion in 2024. Total trade between both nations has reached about ₦1.82 trillion within five years.

During the talks, Adeniyi emphasised the importance of establishing a more structured partnership between the two customs services. He described Malaysia as a major trading partner, noting that Nigeria imports products such as crude palm oil, refined palm olein, aviation fuel, machinery, and other industrial materials.

He also pointed out that customs agencies play a key role in supporting legitimate trade while protecting national economic and security interests.

Despite the long-standing trade relationship, both sides observed that there is no formal legal framework guiding their customs cooperation. They agreed to begin the process of developing a Mutual Recognition Agreement under the World Customs Organisation (WCO), which will be pursued through diplomatic channels.

As part of the engagement, Malaysian officials presented their border management structure, including the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), which operates as an integrated frontline system.

In response, the Nigerian delegation highlighted ongoing reforms within the NCS, including the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme and other initiatives designed to speed up cargo clearance, cut costs, and improve compliance.

Both parties stressed the need for closer collaboration in intelligence sharing, enforcement efforts, and the use of technology to tackle illicit trade and cross-border crimes.

The NCS reaffirmed its commitment to building stronger bilateral and multilateral partnerships as part of its modernisation drive. It expressed optimism that the outcomes of the visit will enhance operational efficiency, promote smoother trade, and strengthen border security in line with Nigeria’s economic goals.

While in Malaysia, Adeniyi also met with officials at the Nigerian diplomatic mission and the Defence Office, where he commended their role in promoting Nigeria’s interests and assisting citizens abroad.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in collaboration with other stakeholders, has sustained discussions on food security, policy communication, and stakeholder engagement during the 2026 Nigerian Public Relations Week (NPRW) in Kaduna.

The programme, which carried the theme “Policy making to Public plate”, began on April 19, 2026, at the Brigadier General Abba Kyari Banquet Hall. It drew the presence of Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima and Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sanni. Communication experts, policymakers, and media professionals from across Nigeria also attended to examine issues linked to food inflation and food security.

Customs maintained a notable presence throughout the event. More than 29 Public Relations Officers from the Service took part in the week-long activities. Their participation reflects efforts by the agency to improve communication systems, deepen engagement with stakeholders, and uphold high standards in public relations practice.

One of the key moments at the event was a panel discussion that examined how strategic communication can help address food inflation and improve public awareness of government actions on food security.

During the session, the National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, stressed the importance of communication in both policy design and execution, especially in areas such as trade facilitation and border control.

Maiwada asserted that “Even at the implementation stage of any policy, communication is critical,” he said. “Without clearly communicating these policies to the public, they may not achieve the desired impact. When people understand how policies affect them, they are more likely to align with them.”

He added that clear communication helps to build trust, shape public opinion, and secure support for government initiatives, particularly when dealing with challenges like food inflation and supply chain disruptions.

Other speakers at the session, including Pan-African Parliament Ambassador for Food Security, Ambassador Bryiyne Chitsunge, and communication specialist Agnes Bassey, pointed to climate change and insecurity as key factors driving food inflation. They warned that poor communication around these issues often leads to misunderstanding and the spread of false information.

Participants also called for responsible, data-driven reporting by the media and urged stronger cooperation between government agencies and journalists to ensure balanced coverage of food security and national development matters.

As part of activities lined up for the event, the National Public Relations Officer hosted a dinner for Public Relations Officers at the B.A. Adeniyi Officers’ Mess in Kaduna. The gathering offered an informal setting for officers to interact and strengthen professional ties.

The dinner had in attendance the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Zone B, Nsika Umoh, and the Comptroller of Kaduna Area Command, Sa’ad Hassan, along with other officers present at the conference.

Speaking at the event, ACG Umoh praised the strong sense of unity among officers in the Public Relations Unit, noting that the environment reflected a spirit of teamwork and mutual support.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a warning to Nigerians over a fraudulent social media account that is allegedly offering vehicles for auction.

In a statement released by the Service, it revealed that the attention of the agency had been drawn to the fake account, which is circulating online and misleading people with false claims of car sales.

The NCS dismissed the claims, stressing that it has no connection to the said account or the supposed auctions. It also clarified that the officer whose photograph appears on the platform is not involved in any vehicle sales on social media.

According to the Service, the account is a case of impersonation designed to deceive and defraud unsuspecting members of the public.

“The attention of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has been drawn to a fraudulent social media account currently circulating online, falsely conducting vehicle auctions.”

“The NCS wishes to state clearly that this claim is false and did not originate from the Service. The officer whose image is being used is not involved in any car sales on social media, and the account is an act of impersonation intended to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.”

The agency urged Nigerians to ignore such messages. It also advised the public not to send money to individuals behind the scheme and to report the account to relevant authorities for necessary action.

“Members of the public are strongly advised to disregard such messages, refrain from making any payments, and report the account for further action.”

The NCS further encouraged citizens to rely on its verified platforms for accurate information and updates.

“For reliable and factual information about NCS, please follow us on updates published through our official communication channels: Facebook: Nigeria Customs Service Instagram: @customsng TikTok: @customsng Threads: @customsng X: @customsng Website: www.customs.gov.ng”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated a newly built Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’ office complex of the Nigeria Customs Service in Iperu, Ogun State. The project marks a significant step in the agency’s expansion and reform programme.

The commissioning took place on Saturday, April 4, 2026. During the event, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, said the project reflects efforts to strengthen the Service’s core responsibilities while improving staff welfare and working conditions.

He explained that the new facility became necessary due to growing operational pressure and inadequate space at the existing base in Ikeja, Lagos.

“We’ve just commissioned the Federal Operations Unit; they will be moving here as soon as possible. It’s already been furnished. The accessories that would ensure proper functioning of the facilities have also been installed. Provision of a modern armoury and then, of course, you know that this is the warehouse directly opposite this facility. This warehouse will also support the warehouse at the nearby aviation village”, he explained.

Adeniyi praised Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for supporting the relocation effort. He also acknowledged former Comptroller-General, Col. Hameed Ali (Rtd), for initiating the project. He said the former CGC laid the groundwork for its completion.

On the financial aspect, Adeniyi disclosed that the project was initially valued at ₦73 billion. He noted that current economic conditions may lead to a revision of the cost.

The Customs boss also revealed that operations have started at the nearby cargo airport, which was inaugurated on the same day. He said officers are already involved in cargo handling and terminal activities.

“We’re already at the airport, and we also had our officers who performed tallying when Mr President was asked to witness the offloading of the first cargo at the airport. So, we’re already there, the facilities have been provided for us.”

The project site is designed to host about 142 structures. These include a training college, multipurpose halls, and a sports complex. The development reflects the Service’s long-term plan for growth and modernisation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Wale Adeniyi, has pledged support for Team Nigeria’s build-up to the 2026 Commonwealth Games after his appointment as one of the country’s official ambassadors by the National Sports Commission.

The announcement, which was made on April 1, 2026, forms part of efforts to mobilise nationwide backing for the Games. The initiative brings together key figures from the sports sector, including administrators, former athletes, and other stakeholders. Adeniyi’s inclusion highlights the increasing role of public institutions in sports development and places the Nigeria Customs Service among contributors to Nigeria’s international sporting ambitions.

Members of the ambassadorial team include experienced sports administrators such as Mallam Saleh Ahmadu, Dr Amos Adamu, Chief Patrick Ekeji, Alhassan Yakmut, and Gbenga Elegbeleye. All have held leadership roles at the National Sports Commission. Their experience is expected to guide planning and preparation for the Games.

The team also features notable former athletes. Among them are Olympic medalist Daniel Igali and Commonwealth champion Blessing Oborodudu. Other stakeholders and representatives from the private sector were also named. The composition of the group reflects an attempt to combine technical knowledge with athlete experience to strengthen preparations.

Reacting to the development, the Comptroller-General praised the initiative and described sports as an important tool for unity, youth involvement, and global recognition. He stressed the need for cooperation among stakeholders to ensure effective preparation for the competition.

“The success of Team Nigeria will depend not only on the athletes but on the strength of the support system around them. This ambassadorial initiative is a step in the right direction towards building that collective responsibility,” he stated.

The 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, 2026. Athletes from across the Commonwealth are expected to compete in several events, including athletics, swimming, boxing, cycling, and gymnastics. The programme will also include para-sports.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has marked the first anniversary of its Corporate Social Responsibility programme, known as ‘Customs Cares’, with the commissioning of a major project at Government Secondary School, Wuse, Abuja.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, performed the ceremony on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, in the presence of students, teachers and other stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, Adeniyi said the decision to adopt the school under the CSR framework has yielded positive results, especially in academic performance and the learning environment.

“What we have seen here today shows clearly that we did not make a mistake in adopting this school. The performance by the students reflects the impact of what has been done,” CGC Adeniyi said.

He explained that the intervention goes beyond physical structures. He noted that it has opened up opportunities for students to interact, discover their talents and improve academically.

“This is not just about infrastructure. It is about creating opportunities for young people to grow, interact and build confidence for the future,” he said.

The Customs boss also praised the school management for identifying key areas of need early. He said this helped the Service to focus on infrastructure and security improvements.

He stated that the Service renovated important facilities and installed solar-powered lighting to enhance safety within the school.

“This is a promise made and a promise kept. We are pleased that the project has been delivered on time and to the benefit of the students,” Adeniyi said.

Adeniyi advised students to make good use of the new facilities. He stressed the importance of building communication and public speaking skills for future success.

“You must take advantage of what has been provided here. These facilities are meant to help you discover yourselves and prepare for greater responsibilities ahead,” he added.

He also highlighted the need to maintain the facilities. He warned that many public projects fail due to poor maintenance. He called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration to consider partnerships that will support long-term upkeep.

“Our office remains open for further collaboration, but we must ensure that what has been provided is properly sustained,” he said.

Earlier, the Comptroller in charge of the Customs Cares Unit, Patience Ibrahim, said the event celebrated both the initiative’s first anniversary and the delivery of one of its key projects.

She said the programme was designed to address development needs in communities where the Service operates.

“In just one year, the initiative has grown into a recognised platform for delivering impactful projects across the country, and this intervention reflects the Service’s commitment to education as a driver of national development,” she said.

The Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Education Board, Danlami Hayyo, described the project as a strong example of institutional collaboration. He said it shows a clear commitment to the future of students.

“This intervention goes beyond infrastructure. It represents a commitment to the future of these students and to the broader goal of sustainable development,” he said.

Hayyo commended the NCS for extending its efforts to key sectors such as education, health and the environment. He added that the initiative creates room for stronger cooperation with the education sector.

The Principal of Government Secondary School, Wuse, Josephine Ugwu, said the project marks an important milestone in the school’s partnership with the Customs Service.

She listed the components of the intervention to include the renovation of the multi-purpose hall, installation of CCTV cameras, provision of solar-powered streetlights and distribution of learning materials.

“These facilities have transformed our environment. The hall will now serve as a centre for learning, cultural activities and talent development,” she said.

Ugwu said the project will have a lasting effect on students and improve the sense of community within the school.

Activities at the event included a basketball match between the Nigeria Customs Service team and students of the school.

The Customs Comptroller-General and his team also planted trees alongside officials of the Federal Capital Territory Secondary Education Board and other invited guests.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has set a goal to reach 50,000 pupils nationwide under its Corporate Social Responsibility programme, “Customs Cares.”

Launched in 2025, “Customs Cares” aims to support education, healthcare, food security, environmental sustainability, social investment, and the creative economy.

At the programme’s first anniversary held on Tuesday at Government Secondary School, Wuse 3, Abuja, Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, noted that about 15,000 students have already benefited in its inaugural year.

“The programme demonstrates the Service’s resolve to contribute to national development beyond its core responsibilities,” Adeniyi said. He added, “The Service has set a target of reaching 50,000 pupils nationwide,” and reiterated that “about 15,000 students have already benefited within the first year of the programme.”

Adeniyi highlighted that the intervention has expanded beyond school infrastructure to address critical needs such as water supply in underserved communities, in alignment with sustainable development goals.

During the event, the NCS officially commissioned a renovated assembly hall, donated basketball kits and equipment to the school team, and carried out tree planting to promote environmental awareness. Adeniyi explained that the upgraded hall would enhance students’ confidence, creativity, and communication skills.

He also commended the students for their recent basketball victory over the Customs team and stressed the importance of improved learning facilities in shaping young people’s development. The Comptroller-General called for stronger collaboration among schools, government institutions, and private organisations to ensure proper maintenance and sustainability of public facilities.

Comptroller Mbwidiffu Ibrahim, Head of the Customs Cares CSR Unit, described the programme as a strategic response to community development needs, stating it “reflects deliberate investment in the future of young Nigerians and demonstrates the Service’s commitment to continuity, accountability, and measurable impact.”

Representing the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Secretary for Education Dr Danlami Hayyo commended NCS for prioritising education and urged the school to make effective use of the new facilities. Fatima Gambo Babba, Director and Secretary of the FCT Secondary Education Board, noted the initiative reflects growing collaboration between public institutions and the education sector.

The school Principal, Mrs Josephine Ugwu, expressed gratitude, stating that the programme, which includes CCTV cameras and solar-powered lighting, would significantly enhance teaching, learning, and overall school development.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Oyo/Osun Area Command, has announced a revenue haul of ₦14.7 billion and the interception of smuggled goods valued at more than ₦2.5 billion.

The Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Wale Adewole, disclosed this on Thursday, March 26, 2026, during a press briefing at the Command’s operational headquarters in Ibadan.

He said the Command achieved the results through tighter surveillance and enforcement efforts across Oyo and Osun states. The operations led to several seizures of prohibited items in line with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

Items confiscated include 1,603 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 123 bales and 18 sacks of used clothing, and 88 sacks of used shoes. Officers also recovered 1,351 used tyres and 206 used compressors. Other seized goods consist of narcotics such as 1,144 wraps of cannabis sativa and packs of tramadol, as well as Premium Motor Spirit, foreign textiles, sugar, and some used vehicles linked to smuggling activities.

Providing details on the operations, Adewole stated, “These seizures were made at different locations across Oyo and Osun States through credible intelligence and coordinated patrol operations. The total Duty Paid Value of the seized items amounts to Two Billion, Five Hundred and Thirty-One Million, Ninety-One Thousand, Eight Hundred and Forty-Six Naira.”

On revenue, he said the Command generated ₦14,745,741,806.05 within the period under review. The figure shows a 46.22 per cent increase when compared to the ₦10.1 billion recorded in the same period of 2025. He linked the growth to stricter compliance measures, improved revenue monitoring, and efforts to support legitimate trade.

Adewole restated the Command’s resolve to sustain the tempo of its operations. He cautioned smugglers and other economic saboteurs to abandon illegal activities. He added that the Service would continue to enforce government fiscal policies.

He also credited the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for providing strategic direction. In addition, he appreciated traditional rulers, stakeholders, and members of the media for their support in encouraging lawful trade and raising public awareness.