Nigeria Customs Service

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced that 286,697 candidates have been shortlisted to proceed to the next stage of its ongoing recruitment exercise.

The service received a total of 573,523 applications for the 3,927 vacant positions.

The next phase, an online Computer-Based Test (CBT), is scheduled to hold from September 14th to 21st, 2025.

Shortlisted candidates are to take the test at any location of their choice with a reliable internet connection, using a laptop or desktop computer equipped with a webcam.

The service has warned that the test application is not mobile phone-enabled.

Candidates have been advised that the CBT system is sensitive to noise and body movement. Excessive movement, whispering, or switching between browser windows could lead to an automatic logout or disqualification on grounds of malpractice.

To help applicants prepare, a mandatory pre-test exercise will be conducted two days before the actual CBT.

All shortlisted candidates will receive two separate links for the pre-test and the main examination.

The NCS, through its National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, reassured the public that the process is “strictly merit-driven and transparent.”

Applicants are strongly advised to rely only on official NCS communication channels for updates and to be wary of any requests for payment.

By Sabiu Abdullhi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in partnership with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), has held a sensitisation workshop aimed at boosting the efficiency of its Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU).

The event was organised for senior management staff of Customs and took place in Abuja on August 21, 2025.Speaking at the opening, Deputy Comptroller-General Greg Itotoh, who represented the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, said the fight against corruption within the Service has been a long-standing effort.

He explained that the workshop was designed to reinforce internal checks and entrench integrity at all levels.”Having you here today demonstrates our resolve to fight corruption. Being with us further encourages us and strengthens that desire to enforce our Anti-Corruption initiatives that we have put in place,” he said.

He added that the lessons from the exercise would be passed on to other officers and would help drive better service delivery.

He further assured that Customs, working with its stakeholders, would not relent until corruption is fully eradicated.

Also speaking at the event, ICPC Chairman, Musa Aliyu, who was represented by Olusegun Adigun, praised the Customs leadership for prioritising accountability and ensuring that the sensitisation was held.

“Corruption remains one of the greatest impediments to national development, eroding trust, stifling economic growth and diminishing the effectiveness of governance,” he said.

He continued, “As we engage in today’s discourse, let us remember that every act of integrity contributes to a stronger, more transparent society. Let this workshop be a catalyst for a renewed commitment, innovation and proactive engagement in the fight against corruption.”

He urged Customs personnel to remain committed to ethical standards and encouraged management to sustain support for ACTU’s operations.

“Every act of integrity will help reshape society,” he added.

The workshop featured paper presentations, including “Understanding the ACTU Standing Order 2023” by an ICPC official, and “Preventive Strategies in Combating Corruption in Public Institutions” delivered by Richard Bello.

Both papers underscored the importance of preventive reforms and stronger institutional frameworks against unethical practices.

Bringing the event to a close, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, who heads the Customs Intelligence Unit, reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to working closely with ICPC.

He stressed that accountability and transparency remain central to Customs’ ongoing reforms.

“We’re deeply grateful to the ACTU for initiating and championing this Programme. Your relentless effort towards promoting accountability and good governance did not go unnoticed. Thank you for being the moral compass within our institution,” he said.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has held a high-level consultation with the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to address challenges surrounding the rollout of the Unified Customs Management System, popularly called B’Odogwu.

Concerns had been raised by freight forwarders and Licensed Customs Agents who complained about delays and demurrage linked to the new system.

This prompted a meeting on Monday, August 19, 2025, between the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, and the Executive Secretary of the Shippers’ Council, Dr. Akutah Ukeyima, at the Customs headquarters in Abuja.

During the discussions, Dr. Ukeyima conveyed feedback from stakeholders, stressing that operators were facing difficulties tied to system integration, documentation, and port logistics.

He highlighted the need for swift intervention to minimise financial losses and avoid disruptions in cargo clearance.

The Comptroller-General of Customs reaffirmed the importance of the project, describing it as a flagship under the Customs Modernisation Programme.

He noted that, “B’Odogwu, being a flagship project under the Customs Modernisation Programme, remains critical to achieving a transparent, technology-driven, and globally competitive clearance process.”

He assured stakeholders that the initial setbacks would be addressed through continuous engagement, phased improvements, and upgrades to the system.

Both agencies agreed on the need for sustained collaboration and pledged to continue consultations with shipping lines, terminal operators, and other stakeholders.

The NCS stressed that while transitional difficulties were expected in reforms of this scale, efforts were underway to reduce disruptions and shield operators from additional costs such as demurrage.

According to the Service, the B’Odogwu platform is designed to centralise Customs processes, integrate stakeholders into a single system, shorten clearance timelines, lower costs, improve compliance, and boost government revenue.

The Customs leadership urged stakeholders to support the implementation, provide constructive feedback, and partner with the Service in creating a modernised trade environment that enhances efficiency and competitiveness.

The statement was issued by Abdullahi Maiwada, PhD, Assistant Comptroller of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a one-year extension of the tenure of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.

Adeniyi’s tenure, originally set to expire on August 31, 2025, will now continue until August 2026.

The extension is aimed at allowing the Customs boss to consolidate ongoing reforms and complete key initiatives of the Tinubu administration.

According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the extension will enable Adeniyi to drive critical projects, including the modernisation of the NCS, the implementation of the National Single Window Project, and the execution of Nigeria’s commitments under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

President Tinubu commended Adeniyi for his leadership and expressed confidence that the extension would enhance the Service’s ability to deliver on its mandate of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and border security.

Adeniyi, a career customs officer, was appointed Comptroller-General in 2023 and has since spearheaded reforms to improve efficiency in the Service.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a public advisory warning Nigerians against misusing United States visas, stressing that entry into the U.S. does not exempt visa holders from ongoing scrutiny.

In a press statement dated July 29, 2025, and signed by the National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the Service noted that the U.S. Government had raised concerns about Nigerians engaging in activities that contradict the declared purpose of their travel and the category under which their visas were issued.

“The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) wishes to alert the general public to the concerns raised by the Government of the United States of America on the need for Nigerians to desist from misusing entry visas granted by the US through activities that are inconsistent with the stated purpose of travel and visa classification,” the statement said.

The NCS emphasized that visa vetting continues beyond the point of entry.

It warned that U.S. immigration officials retain the authority to revoke visas at any time if holders are found in breach of immigration laws, import or export regulations, or other legal standards.

“U.S. authorities will continuously monitor the activities of visa holders, and visas can be revoked if holders are found to have violated US immigration protocols, import/export guidelines and other laws,” the Customs Service noted.

The advisory also reminded Nigerian travellers to comply with cash declaration rules when entering or exiting the country.

Individuals carrying more than $10,000 or its equivalent are required to declare it to the authorities. Travellers were also warned not to transport prohibited goods in their luggage.

“It is pertinent to also note that passengers are encouraged to be law abiding citizens and be of good conduct within and outside Nigeria,” the statement added.

Intending U.S. travellers were further advised to uphold integrity in all jurisdictions. According to the Customs, “whoever commits fraud in any jurisdiction will face legal consequences both under U.S. and Nigerian laws.”

The NCS disclosed that it is working closely with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure Nigeria remains in good standing.

The aim is to prevent the inclusion of Nigeria in a broader visa restriction list that could affect legitimate travellers.

“The Nigeria Customs Service wishes to reaffirm that it is working with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure that Nigeria meets the criteria to avoid enlistment into an expanded visa ban that will deny entry to well-meaning Nigerians wishing to travel to the US for their lawful business endeavours,” the statement concluded.

The Customs Service urged members of the public to take these reminders seriously in order to protect Nigeria’s global image and ensure unhindered travel for its citizens.

By Sabiu Abdullah

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, visited the State House Press Gallery in Abuja on Monday, July 27, 2025, to pay tribute to the late Dr. Leon Usigbe, the Abuja Bureau Chief of the Nigerian Tribune.

During the visit, which took place in a solemn atmosphere, CGC Adeniyi signed the condolence register opened by the State House Press Corps.

He described the late journalist as “a seasoned professional who carried out his duties with rare depth, integrity, and commitment to the ideals of journalism.”Clearly emotional, Adeniyi expressed the deep sense of loss felt by the media and broader society.

In his words, “We have lost a giant in the media landscape. Dr. Usigbe was a journalist of uncommon excellence whose dedication to truth and fairness made him a reference point for many in the profession.”

Known for promoting open engagement with the press, CGC Adeniyi extended his sympathies to Dr. Usigbe’s family, colleagues in the State House Press Corps, and the management of the Nigerian Tribune.

He encouraged them to draw strength from the life and values the late journalist embodied.Dr. Usigbe was widely regarded as one of the most respected political correspondents in the country.

His career was marked by sharp analysis and fearless reporting on governance and public affairs.

His death has triggered a wave of tributes from government officials, media professionals, and civic voices, all recognizing the void left by his absence.

The condolence register has continued to receive messages from high-ranking officials, veteran journalists, and friends, underscoring the influence Dr. Usigbe had in shaping ethical journalism and public discourse in Nigeria.

His legacy remains a beacon for professionalism and integrity in the field.

By Anas Abbas

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has once again been recognized for its commitment to excellence in public service and strategic communication.

Assistant Comptroller of Customs (AC) Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer, has been named among Nigeria’s top 50 PR and communications professionals in the prestigious 2025 PR Power List.

This significant recognition was announced on Wednesday by GLG Communications in partnership with the Guardian Newspaper.

The annual PR Power List honors public relations professionals who have significantly shaped narratives and driven impactful change within the communication sector, both in Nigeria and abroad.

AC Abdullahi Maiwada earned a spot in the Changemakers Category, which celebrates professionals who actively challenge conventional practices and introduce innovative communication strategies that yield measurable results.

In response to the honor, AC Maiwada expressed his gratitude, calling the recognition a humbling milestone that reflects the progress achieved in institutional communication within the NCS.

“This recognition is deeply humbling. It speaks to the commitment of the Service to modernize public engagement, enhance transparency, and build trust through effective storytelling and timely dissemination of accurate information,” he stated.

Maiwada emphasized that while he is honored to receive this accolade, the credit belongs to his dedicated team and the visionary leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

“His reforms have empowered us to think differently, act boldly, and represent the Service with dignity and professionalism,” he added.

As the NCS continues to enhance its public engagement strategies, this accolade serves as a testament to its ongoing efforts to foster transparency and trust with the Nigerian public.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the interception of a container carrying more than 10,000 donkey genitals along the Kaduna–Abuja Highway.

The disclosure was made by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, through the Service’s National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, during a press conference held at the government warehouse in Karu, Abuja, on Thursday, July 10, 2025.

Maiwada said the interception was part of ongoing efforts by the Customs to combat illegal wildlife trade through the activities of its Special Wildlife Office (SWO), which operates under the Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU).

He explained that the unit’s mandate includes intelligence gathering, profiling, investigations, and enforcement against criminal networks involved in trafficking endangered species.

According to CGC Adeniyi, officers of the SWO and CIU carried out the operation on June 5, 2025, at about 9:00 p.m. following actionable intelligence.

He noted that the interception highlights the continuous threat posed by transnational syndicates exploiting Nigeria’s trade routes.

He stated that in line with established procedures, the confiscated wildlife products would be transferred to the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to ensure inter-agency cooperation and environmental protection.

Adeniyi also reviewed the Service’s wildlife enforcement track record over the past year. He mentioned that in December 2024, six African Grey Parrots were confiscated in Kano, while in May 2025, Customs officials at Lagos Airport intercepted various animals including two live pangolins, five Mona monkeys, two Tantalus monkeys, one baby baboon, and another African Grey Parrot.

“In a separate operation, officers arrested a suspect in the Ikom area of Cross River State in connection with 213 parrot heads, six eagle heads, 128 hornbill heads, and other exotic species,” he added.

He further stated, “On 13 January 2025, tortoises were rescued and handed over to the National Park Service in Oyo State. We have also recorded seizures of taxidermy specimens such as life-sized lions, zebra hides, gorilla parts, and pangolin scales.”

Adeniyi also revealed that a container loaded with 119.4 kilograms of pangolin scales was intercepted in Calabar, and in Fufore, Adamawa State, 120 African Grey Parrots were rescued while a suspect was apprehended.

“These figures underscore the scale and sophistication of illegal wildlife trade. It is not just an ecological issue, but one tied to organised crimes, including money laundering, arms smuggling, and illicit currency flows,” he said.

He affirmed the Service’s commitment to curbing wildlife crime through advanced tools, noting that Customs is now investing in digital surveillance, cross-border cooperation, and species identification technologies.

“Our Wildlife Office’s investigations, including digital forensics and phone analysis of suspects, have strengthened our evidence base, with several prosecutions currently underway,” he stated.

Also speaking at the event, the Head of the Customs Wildlife Office, Assistant Comptroller Anuhu Mani, acknowledged the support of local and international conservation groups and neighbouring enforcement agencies.

He specifically appreciated organisations such as Focused Conservation, Wildlife Conservation Society, Wild Power Trust, Green Fingers, and Padrilas for their collaborative efforts.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has commended the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for their collaborative efforts in curbing illicit drugs and other prohibited items.

During a meeting at his Abuja office on June 3, 2025, Ribadu recognised the three agencies for their roles in a recent operation that led to the destruction of 206 containers and one trailer-load of illegal pharmaceuticals and narcotics.

He also confirmed the completion of an extensive investigation involving 50 additional containers, describing the exercise as a benchmark for effective cooperation in national security.

Praising the dedication of all parties involved, Ribadu said, “This is an acknowledgment of the good work you’ve been doing. Nigeria is changing. It won’t be business as usual anymore. We’ll go after the criminals who bring these poisons into our country.”

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, noted that the Service had previously declared a state of emergency on the smuggling of illicit pharmaceuticals.

He explained that close coordination among the agencies, with support from the NSA’s office, made it possible to swiftly detect and eliminate dangerous products.

“We are stronger together,” Adeniyi stated. “And we will remain vigilant to ensure these substances never make it into the wrong hands.”

Director-General of NAFDAC, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, said the operation was in line with Nigeria’s National Action Plan against drug abuse and the importation of unregistered pharmaceuticals.

She revealed that over 1,300 security personnel had been mobilised under the NSA’s orders to support Customs, NAFDAC, and NDLEA operations nationwide.

“These unregistered and unwholesome products are a danger to our women and children,” she cautioned.

“Our continued collaboration with Customs and NDLEA is saving lives.”Representing the NDLEA Chairman, Shadrac Haruna also pointed to the impact of an inter-agency committee set up by the CGC.

He noted that the committee had significantly helped in intercepting drugs and dismantling illegal storage facilities.

As part of the event, plaques and letters of commendation were presented to the heads of the three agencies.

The NSA was also handed a Certificate of Destruction for the confiscated items—a symbolic gesture reinforcing Nigeria’s resolve to fight the drug menace.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, has been appointed as the Vice Chair of the Body of Advisers of the Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG).

The appointment was announced during the ongoing 2025 Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

This year’s NPRW, organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), began on May 19 and will run until May 23.

The annual gathering brings together communication professionals, government officials, and other key players to explore how effective communication can support national development.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, formally opened the event on Tuesday, May 20. In his remarks, he restated the administration’s dedication to using strategic communication as a means of strengthening nation-building and drawing investment.

CGC Adeniyi’s new role shows the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) growing influence in the field of public communication.

Adeniyi welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the NRMG’s efforts.

“I consider it a privilege to be part of this important national assignment,” CGC Adeniyi said. “I have full trust in the capacity of this group, and I believe that with the calibre of individuals involved, a lot can be achieved in reshaping how Nigeria tells her story to her people and the world.”

He will work alongside other prominent figures, including Channels Television Chairman John Momoh, who now serves as Chair of the NRMG advisory group.

Together, the advisory team is expected to support the NRMG’s aim of presenting a unified and credible image of Nigeria both locally and internationally.

Also representing the NCS at the event, the agency’s National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, presented a paper titled “Advances in Government, Policy and Regulatory Communication.”

His presentation stressed the need for deliberate, multi-platform communication strategies in the public sector. He also shared how the NCS is adopting modern tools to improve public trust and operational transparency.

“The changing dynamics of governance and policy implementation require us to speak clearly, truthfully, and strategically. At Customs, we’ve learned that people don’t just want to be informed, they want to be understood and engaged,” Maiwada noted.