Nigeria Customs Service

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is intensifying its collaboration with the Republic of Benin Customs Administration to boost trade activities between the two nations.

A high-level delegation led by the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, met with the Director-General of the Customs Administration of Benin Republic on Thursday, 11 April 2024. 

The primary agenda of the meeting was to discuss strategies to amplify trade activities and implement previously agreed-upon recommendations from their earlier meeting in Cotonou.

The CGC was quoted as saying, “We are cognizant of the established framework for cooperation between our respective customs administrations. This framework was established at a higher level by the authorities of the heads of State, President Patrice Talon of Benin and His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria, both expressing a desire to work together.” 

Mrs Adidjatou Hassan Zanouvi, the Director-General of Benin Customs Administration, welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed their commitment to executing the agreed-upon measures.

She stated the importance of thorough monitoring for effective implementation. 

The collaboration between the two customs administrations aims to facilitate seamless trade operations and the efficient management of cross-border activities for mutual benefit.  

During the visit, the CGC also inspected ongoing projects within the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command.

Accompanied by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Timi Bomodi, he assessed the progress of the projects and received assurances of diligent oversight from the responsible authorities.

 By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Kikelomo Adeniyi, the National President of the Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), and wife of the Comptroller-General of Customs, spearheaded the extension of palliative distribution to COWA members in Abuja on Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Mrs.

Adeniyi embarked on a tour that included visits to the Federal Capital Territory Command, Nigeria Customs Command, and Staff College Gwagwalada.

During these visits, she delivered a resounding message of solidarity and support to the officers’ wives in attendance, acknowledging their immense challenges and reaffirming COWA’s commitment to providing assistance and empowerment. 

Expressing gratitude to the attendees for their unwavering commitment, the COWA president recognised the sacrifices made by officers’ wives and their invaluable contributions to the Customs community.

She emphasized the significance of empowering women, aligning COWA’s initiatives with the broader national agenda of women’s empowerment championed by the First Lady, Remi Bola Tinubu. 

Encouraging swift registration as members of COWA, President Kikelomo elucidated the myriad benefits awaiting registered members, ranging from access to support services to participation in empowerment programs.

She also articulated COWA’s vision of institutionalising the association and maintaining a comprehensive database of registered members to ensure effective service delivery and support. 

Highlighting the pivotal role of COWA in uplifting women across the nation, Adeniyi reiterated the association’s commitment to empowering widows, orphans, and officers’ wives alike to be self-reliant.

She emphasised the symbiotic relationship between personal empowerment and the ability to uplift others, fostering a culture of support and solidarity within the association. 

Addressing officers directly, the National President urged them to embrace their wives’ participation in COWA activities, recognizing the positive impact on family dynamics and societal progress.

She reassured officers of the benefits stemming from their wives’ involvement, highlighting the transformative power of mutual respect and support within marital relationships. 

During her visit to the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College Gwagwalada, Mrs. Adeniyi commended the Commandant of the College, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs (ACG) Kingsley Egwuh, for his unwavering support of COWA activities and dedication to the institution’s growth and development.  

ACG Egwuh reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to providing unwavering support to COWA, recognizing the pivotal role of the association in fostering unity and support within the Customs community.

He pledged continued collaboration and assistance, acknowledging the indispensable nature of COWA’s initiatives in driving positive change and empowerment.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has unveiled plans to provide shelters for Customs officers and men. 

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony of the NCS housing scheme in Kaduna on Thursday, CGC Adeniyi emphasised the significance of the initiative, stating, “This ceremony is not the last episode of what we have planned. There are projects similar to this in Kano, Asaba, Yola, Abuja, Enugu, and Uyo ready for flag-off.” 

Highlighting the service’s commitment to addressing the housing needs of its personnel, CGC Adeniyi recalled a similar project launched in Ibadan in December 2023 aimed at serving officers and men of the NCS.

He stated the importance of providing suitable housing options, especially for retired personnel. 

The CGC indicated that the initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s vision of providing affordable housing to Nigerians and commended Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State for his support for the success of the exercise. 

Addressing officers interested in the housing scheme, CGC Adeniyi urged them to remain steadfast, announcing plans for the service to collaborate with Cooperative Mortgage Bank to streamline the payment process. 

George Anih, Portfolio and Assets Manager of Family Homes, reiterated his firm’s commitment to providing affordable housing solutions, pledging to partner with the Nigeria Customs Service to deliver 5000 houses for its officers and men. 

Mr. Musa Abubakar, Managing Director of Cooperative Mortgage Bank, affirmed his dedication to ensuring the timely completion of the housing project, assuring the Comptroller-General of Customs of his bank’s support. 

The NCS housing scheme represents a significant step towards enhancing the welfare and livelihoods of customs personnel, reflecting the service’s dedication to serving its workforce and contributing to national development.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, has intercepted a truckload of beans with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N61.4 million, intended for illegal exportation, amidst widespread food shortages across the nation. 

Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Timi Bomodi, disclosed this during a press briefing on Tuesday, 5 March 2024, marking the Command’s first press briefing for the year. 

According to Comptroller Bomodi, “In light of our present economic realities and the reported massive food shortages nationwide, and in line with the directive to prevent illegal grain export, the Command seized a truckload of beans, totaling 400 bags with a DPV of N61,450,000.00, stockpiled in a warehouse at one of the exit corridors at the border.” 

He further stated that the intercepted items have been securely stored in the Government warehouse and will be auctioned to the public. 

Highlighting the Command’s anti-smuggling efforts from January to February 2024, Comptroller Bomodi reported a series of successful interventions, including the seizure of 2,193 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 81,930 liters of PMS, 9 vehicles, 1,425 general merchandise, 265 parcels of cannabis sativa, and other narcotics, 149 packages of codeine, and 2 locally manufactured guns, with a combined DPV of N365,888,696.00. 

Thirteen suspects were apprehended during these operations, with various dispositions such as administrative bail, transfer to the NDLEA, and custody by the Nigeria Police. 

In terms of revenue generation, CAC revealed the Command’s yearly target of N7.875 billion, representing a significant increase from the previous year.

Despite challenges, the Command collected a substantial amount in January and February, reaching 88% of the expected revenue. 

Regarding exports, the Command processed 184 declarations for 43 items weighing 65,185.96 MT, with a Free on Board (FOB) value of N13.057 billion. Additionally, revenue was collected for the Nigerian Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) and export surcharges. 

Comptroller Bomodi reassured the public of the NCS’s commitment to its responsibilities, particularly amidst the current challenging times.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a new initiative aimed at improving compliance and streamlining import processes for vehicles.

For a limited time, vehicle owners will have a 90-day window to regularise their import duties. 

This program applies to vehicles that have not been seized or condemned by customs officials.

Owners of such vehicles can apply to Zonal Coordinators to rectify their import duties. 

To participate in this initiative, vehicle owners will need to submit all necessary documents along with their application.

Additionally, a 25% penalty will be applied on top of the standard import duty. 

This move by the NCS is seen as a positive step towards improving compliance and generating revenue for the country.

It also provides an opportunity for vehicle owners to rectify their import status and avoid potential penalties in the future. 

The 90-day window provides a limited window for vehicle owners to take advantage of this program.

Those who wish to regularise their import duties are encouraged to contact their nearest NCS Zonal Coordinator for more information and to initiate the application process.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘B’ Kaduna, Comptroller Dalha Wada Chedi, has taken swift action in response to allegations of extortion by an officer of the Nigeria Customs Service.

The incident allegedly occurred along the Mokwa-Jebba Road in Niger State. 

According to reports, the officer in question is accused of extorting the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500,000.00) from a car buyer named Muhammad Dahiru Ahmad.

The complainant reported the incident, prompting an immediate investigation by authorities. 

Addressing the media at the unit’s headquarters in Kaduna, Comptroller Dalha Wada Chedi confirmed that the suspected officer is a member of the unit deployed to the Mokwa Patrol Team in Niger State. 

He stated the gravity of the allegations and the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to uphold integrity and discipline within its ranks. 

“The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, and his Management team frown upon such unruly behavior,” stated Comptroller Dalha Wada Chedi. “The disciplinary committee will conduct a diligent and firm investigation into this matter.” 

The suspected officer has been handed over to the Assistant Provost Marshal (APM) Customs Police Unit in Kaduna for a discreet investigation.

Comptroller Dalha Wada Chedi assured the public that the findings of the investigation would be transmitted to the Nigeria Customs Service Board for further action. 

“We are deeply concerned and assure the general public that this matter will be treated with the deserved vigor, decisiveness, and transparency,” he added. 

The Comptroller pledged to provide updates on the investigation’s progress, urging the public to continue rendering support and cooperation. 

The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and accountability, and any misconduct within its ranks will be thoroughly investigated and addressed accordingly.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

In a bid to streamline customs operations and bolster trade efficiency, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to adopting evidence-based approaches.

This commitment was reiterated during the launch of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) assisted Time Release Study (TRS) Scoping Mission for Nigeria.

At the ceremony held in Lagos on Thursday, February 8, 2024, Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR emphasized the significance of the TRS method.

This systematic approach aims to measure the total duration from the arrival of goods at the Customs border until their release. 

CGC Adeniyi highlighted the strategic importance of the initiative, stating, “It represents a critical step in our ongoing efforts to optimize the trading experience and customs operations in Nigeria.”

He underscored the NCS’s commitment to trade efficiency and national development, citing initiatives such as the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program and the establishment of a Customs Laboratory. 

The launch of the TRS received commendation from government officials and stakeholders present at the event. Minister of Finance, represented by Lydia Jafiya, stated its alignment with the Federal Government’s agenda for economic revitalization.

Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite, stressed the role of trade facilitation in enhancing revenue generation and national competitiveness. 

With collaborative efforts between the NCS, WCO, and other stakeholders, Nigeria aims to leverage scientific studies and innovative strategies to enhance customs operations, promote economic growth, and facilitate international trade.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller-General Customs (CGC) Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, in a bid to bolster trade efficiency and combat smuggling, has announced plans to harness advanced artificial intelligence (AI) with a focus on virtual reality technology (VRT).

The CGC stated this commitment during a two-day workshop dedicated to the installation and utilisation of VRT, organised in collaboration with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) and Ho Entertainment. 

Speaking on behalf of CGC Adeniyi, Assistant Comptroller-General ACG Malanta Yusuf lauded the partnership with WCO and CCF Korea, recognising it as a crucial step towards leveraging technological advancements in customs operations.

ACG Yusuf stressed the CGC’s unwavering dedication to embracing cutting-edge solutions, citing ongoing officer training initiatives aimed at detecting radioactive materials to thwart smuggling attempts. 

Echoing ACG Yusuf’s sentiments, ACG Kingsley Egwuh, Commandant of the Nigeria Customs College and Staff College (NCCSC), hailed the collaborative efforts as pivotal in enhancing the skills of customs personnel.

He expressed confidence that the workshop would not only elevate inspection protocols but also serve as a deterrent to illicit trade practices. 

The workshop garnered praise from Professor Baek Sung-Sil, a representative from the WCO, who lauded the CGC’s forward-looking approach to modernising customs procedures through technology integration.

Professor Sung-Sil commended the dedication exhibited by participants and expressed optimism regarding the positive impact of the training on customs operations.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in its effort to strengthen partnerships with compliant stakeholders, has declared its dedication to fostering substantially improved relationships in 2024. 

This is contained in a statement made available to journalists on Saturday by the public relations officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwadah. 

According to Maiwadah, the announcement was made by Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, during the International Customs Day Celebration held on Friday, January 26, 2024, at the Customs Training College in Ikeja, Lagos. 

The event, which was said to have been attended by prominent figures including the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and representatives from various government agencies and industry bodies, witnessed the recognition of the NCBN Caretaker Group with a Special Recognition Award. 

Addressing the audience, CGC Adeniyi stated the service’s commitment to the theme of the celebration, ‘Customs, Engaging Traditional and New Partners with a Purpose,’ aligning with the core objectives of consolidation, innovation, and collaboration. 

His words read, “This year, we commit to fostering a substantially improved relationship with all of you, our stakeholders, especially those who respect our rules. We recognize that authentic partnerships are constructed on mutual respect and understanding.” 

Highlighting the significance of collaboration, Adeniyi announced the launch of a Time Release Study in February 2024.

This comprehensive exercise aims to optimize processes and reduce the time for goods to be released at ports and border stations, with a call for active participation from all partners. 

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, also affirmed the importance of customs and stakeholders working collaboratively to unlock the potential of collaboration and increase revenue generation. 

He commended the Customs leadership for prioritizing the use of scanners over physical examination, adding that it has a positive impact on revenue, efficiency, and competitiveness at ports.

By Muhammad Sabiu

A Nigeria Customs Service post in Mil Takwas hamlet, a few kilometres from Katsina town, was ambushed by a group of gunmen known locally as bandits.

The attack took place around 1 a.m. on Monday, according to multiple sources and the Nigerian Customs Service in Katsina.

The criminals approached the checkpoint on motorcycles, according to Shamsu Magama, a resident of Magama Jibia.

They arrived from the Bugaje village forest and halted a commercial vehicle on its way to Jibia. On the spot, the driver was murdered. He claimed that after that, they rode their motorcycles towards Mil Takwas.

Another community member claimed that the customs officers were attacked because the bandits figured that if they went to the hamlet without chasing the Customs officials away, they would be able to repel the onslaught.

He claimed that four customs vehicles had been set ablaze.

Katsina is one of the northwestern states brutally hit by the criminal activities of the bandits operating in the region.