Nigeria Customs Services

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in a bid to bolster food security and ensure accessibility to essential food items across the nation, has inaugurated a nationwide sale of seized items, with a bag of rice being auctioned at the price of N10,000. 

During a press briefing held yesterday in Lagos to inaugurate the sale of the food items, Comptroller-General of the NCS, Bashir Adeniyi, underscored the service’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding food security and facilitating the availability of crucial food commodities in the country. 

Adeniyi highlighted that the NCS had obtained government approval to distribute confiscated food items to deserving Nigerians at discounted rates.

The targeted beneficiaries include artisans, teachers, nurses, religious bodies, and other members of the populace. 

“In recent months, the government has been addressing the challenges confronting our economy, particularly the lingering effects of insecurity and prevailing exchange rate issues,” Adeniyi remarked. 

He expressed concern over the surge in the outflow of food items to neighboring countries, attributing this trend to the exacerbation of food security concerns.

Adeniyi noted that such practices strain Nigeria’s productive capacity and jeopardize its food security. 

The seized items up for sale comprise over 20,000 bags of assorted grains including rice, beans, maize, guinea corn, millet, and soya beans, alongside 2,500 cartons and 963 bags of dried fish.

Additionally, other items such as dried pepper, tomatoes, cooking oil, maggi, macaroni, salt, sugar, and garri are included in the sale. 

Adeniyi reiterated the NCS’s commitment to overseeing the supply chain diligently to prevent any misuse or diversion of the food items.

He assured that stringent guidelines and eligibility criteria have been implemented to ensure that the items are allocated solely to individuals in genuine need. 

The launch of this initiative signals the NCS’s proactive stance in addressing food security challenges and underscores its role in promoting the welfare of Nigerians amidst prevailing economic conditions.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, took a proactive step towards bolstering efforts against smuggling activities by forging a closer collaboration with the Nigerian Navy (NN).

In a recent courtesy visit to the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the CGC indicated the importance of joint operations and intelligence-sharing between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the NN. 

During the visit on Tuesday, February 19, 2024, at the Nigerian Navy Headquarters in Abuja, CGC Adeniyi reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing the relationship between the two agencies to combat smuggling effectively across Nigerian waterways.

He stated the necessity of tapping into the Nigerian Navy’s expertise to bolster the capacity of Customs personnel serving within the Customs Marine Units. 

Highlighting the NCS’s possession of ocean-going and creek-going vessels, CGC Adeniyi disclosed plans to transport two ocean-going vessels to the Nigerian Navy Dockyard for maintenance, further noting the importance of intelligence-driven operations in combating smuggling activities. 

In response, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla expressed gratitude for the visit and reiterated the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to supporting Customs in enforcing laws against smuggling.

He pledged the availability of Navy training facilities to the NCS at no cost and affirmed the need for reciprocal collaboration to enhance maritime security effectively. 

Vice Admiral Ogalla also addressed the importance of collaboration with a specific unit of the Nigerian Navy tasked with clearing items imported by the agency to streamline operations and mitigate obstacles.

Additionally, he proposed the review of a five-year-old Harmonised Standard Operating Procedure (HSOP) for monitoring maritime crimes in light of current challenges. 

The meeting between the Comptroller General of Customs and the Chief of Naval Staff signifies a significant stride towards enhancing maritime security and combating smuggling along Nigeria’s coastal waters.

The commitment to mutual support and collaboration sets a promising precedent for future joint efforts aimed at safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity and promoting economic prosperity.

Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, in a bid to bolster security measures and foster stronger ties, convened a collaborative meeting with the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Corporate Headquarters on February 19, 2024. 

During the session, CGC Adeniyi underscored the paramount importance of the collaboration, stating its role in maintaining and deepening existing relationships between the NCS and the DIA.

He reiterated the NCS’s commitment to partnership, citing cooperation with other customs administrations and government agencies as pivotal for growth. 

“The major objective of this delegation is to maintain and deepen the relationship between the Nigeria Customs Service and the DIA. For the records, the Nigeria Customs Service believes in collaboration. We believe that we can draw strength from collaborating with other government agencies,” said CGC Adeniyi. 

Highlighting past collaborative efforts, particularly in capacity building and security projects, CGC Adeniyi affirmed the NCS’s dedication to working hand in hand with the DIA.

He referenced initiatives such as the partnership with the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, aimed at enhancing the proficiency of customs officers. 

Expressing a keen interest in further cooperation, CGC Adeniyi stated the importance of robust intelligence sharing to effectively address significant security challenges along border areas and enhance the overall efficiency of customs officers. 

“It is our strong desire to deepen this kind of partnership to ensure that we benefit more from it,” he reiterated. 

In response, Air Vice Marshal Samuel Chinda, representing Chief of Defence Intelligence Major General Emmanuel Parker, lauded the collaboration with the NCS, highlighting its pivotal role in combating border threats.

AVM Chinda reiterated the DIA’s openness to partnerships in training and operational endeavours with the Nigeria Customs Service, underscoring the agency’s commitment to strengthening ties for future collaborations. 

The collaborative efforts between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Defence Intelligence Agency signify a proactive approach towards enhancing national security measures and fortifying the nation’s borders against emerging threats.

As both agencies continue to deepen their partnership, the prospects for improved intelligence sharing and coordinated operations are expected to contribute significantly to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

In a proactive measure to address the pressing issue of food insecurity and surging prices of essential commodities, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) unveiled a comprehensive plan on Tuesday to distribute forfeited food items to the Nigerian populace.

The initiative, announced by the NCS National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, aims to alleviate hunger and ease the financial burden on citizens grappling with escalating living costs. 

It was reported that the cache of contraband seized by diligent NCS officers and subsequently forfeited to the federal government by court order encompasses a variety of staples, including rice, groundnut oil, noodles, and other essential commodities. 

In a press statement issued on Tuesday, Maiwada underscored the urgency of the decision in light of the prevailing challenges surrounding food security and affordability in the country.

He reiterated the NCS’s commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s food security agenda, emphasising the agency’s pivotal role in fostering economic stability and prosperity for all Nigerians. 

Maiwada articulated the operational framework for the disbursement, affirming that the forfeited food items would undergo rigorous inspection and certification by relevant authorities to ensure their suitability for consumption.

Subsequently, the items will be equitably distributed across Customs’ Areas of Operations (AoO) nationwide, ensuring widespread access for ordinary Nigerians. 

Highlighting the paramount principles of transparency, fairness, and public safety, Maiwada assured the public that the modalities for the disposal process would be disseminated through NCS formations nationwide.

He stated the NCS’s unwavering commitment to managing the exercise with meticulous diligence to ensure that the benefits reach those most in need throughout the country. 

Maiwada concluded by reiterating the NCS’s steadfast dedication to safeguarding the nation’s food security and enhancing the economic well-being of every Nigerian.

He expressed confidence that, with the collective support and cooperation of the public, the challenges posed by food insecurity would be overcome, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for the nation. 

The announcement of the NCS’s initiative signals a significant step towards mitigating the adverse effects of food scarcity and affordability challenges, offering hope and relief to countless Nigerians grappling with the harsh realities of economic strain.

 By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Kikelomo Adewale Adeniyi, the President of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), has outlined a bold vision aimed at empowering 100,000 women and combating drug abuse in Nigeria. 

Speaking at the relaunch of COWA in Abuja on Thursday, February 15, 2024, Mrs.

Kikelomo Adeniyi underscored the association’s determination to support the Federal Government’s efforts in empowering women, addressing drug addiction, and fostering job creation. 

The event, attended by members, stakeholders, government officials, business leaders, and diplomats, served as a platform to reaffirm COWA’s commitment to empowering women and children while launching an intensive campaign against drug abuse. 

Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi sought the support of Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Bola Tinubu, to enhance women’s well-being and empowerment across the nation.

She also expressed alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ initiative, identifying it as a catalyst for COWA’s primary projects. 

Highlighting concrete initiatives, Mrs. Adeniyi announced the launch of a pilot programme to empower 1,200 women, with plans to extend support to over 100,000 women by the end of 2024.

Additionally, she revealed plans to establish a state-of-the-art Skills Acquisition Center in Abuja, providing vocational training and retraining for COWA members. 

Furthermore, Mrs. Adeniyi stated COWA’s commitment to providing food and humanitarian aid to 100,000 disadvantaged individuals nationwide by the year’s end. 

The relaunch ceremony also served as a fundraising platform, aiming to garner support from corporate entities and individuals to implement COWA’s programs effectively. 

Mrs. Adeniyi outlined plans to establish Nursery, Primary, and Secondary Schools in border communities and urban areas, providing affordable education to the children of Customs officers. 

In his remarks, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, lauded the progress of COWA and commended Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi and her team for their dedication.

He highlighted the inclusion of women in crucial positions within the Nigeria Customs Service as a significant achievement in achieving gender balance. 

CG Adeniyi reiterated the NCS’s commitment to supporting COWA’s initiatives, including building schools, assisting widows, and conducting medical outreach programs in border communities. 

He affirmed the NCS’s unwavering support for COWA’s revival and relaunch, expressing confidence in the association’s positive impact on the organization and the community at large.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, pledged collaboration with the House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee (PAC) during an appearance on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, in Abuja. 

Addressing the committee, CGC Adeniyi highlighted the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) longstanding use of integrated technology for revenue collection, involving over 20 commercial banks in a process spanning more than two decades. 

He noted the contractual agreements with these banks, granting access to a technology platform facilitating seamless payments, directly remitted to the federation accounts. 

Promising a commitment to transparency, CGC Adeniyi expressed readiness to collaborate closely with the Committee, stating, “Compliance is something we take seriously, and we will ensure that if there are any grey areas that need our service to foster efficiency, I am happy to mention that my team and I are prepared and will, in the most transparent manner, present statements to the committee.” 

Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Bamidele Salami, offered advice to NCS, urging the consistent provision of audited statements of accounts and adherence to all legal requirements.

The collaborative effort between the Customs and the Public Accounts Committee signifies a dedication to transparency and accountability in financial matters within the Nigeria Customs Service.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, in a bid to fortify customs processes and mitigate risks, inaugurated a World Customs Organisation (WCO)-led Post Clearance Audit (PCA) and Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) Diagnostic Mission on Monday, January 29, 2024. 

This is contained in a statement released and made available to journalists Tuesday by the spokesperson of the Nigeria Customs Service, Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwadah.

According to Maiwadah, during a two-week retreat at the Wells Carlton Hotel Conference Room in Abuja, CGC Adeniyi outlined the NCS’s commitment to efficient supply chains and meticulous post-clearance audits.

The focus is on enabling Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to qualify for AEO status through tailored training, support, and incentives. 

The initiative aligns with broader goals of inclusive growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation, ensuring societal segments benefit from trade facilitation and economic development opportunities.

The mission specifically addresses entry barriers for SMEs, considering Nigeria’s strategic position in the global trade framework and its role in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). 

CGC Adeniyi stressed the significance of PCA and AEO in the successful implementation of AfCFTA, citing their role in refining customs procedures, strengthening compliance mechanisms, and promoting transparency for regional integration and economic progress in Africa. 

Expressing gratitude to the World Customs Organisation and acknowledging the collaboration with stakeholders, including the WCO-led PCA, IMF, World Bank, and AEO Diagnostic Mission, CGC Adeniyi highlighted the dedication and expertise driving the initiative. 

The Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs (DCG), Abdullahi Musa, welcomed participants, noting Nigeria’s standing as a hub for trade and investment. DCG Musa underscored the mission’s aim to enhance compliance mechanisms, facilitate trade, and contribute to broader WCO objectives for global border security and sustainable economic development. 

DCG Musa extended appreciation to the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund for their support, displaying the dedication and expertise of all stakeholders involved in the two-week programme aimed at accelerating trade facilitation within the Nigeria Customs Service.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, commended the joint efforts with the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) resulting in the interception of illicit substances and arms at Tincan Island Port Command. 

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, January 25, 2024, the CGC revealed that NCS officers intercepted contraband with a staggering street value of N4.279 billion.

According to a statement released by the customs public relations officer, Abdullahi Maiwadah, on Friday, the seized items included 56.39kg of cocaine valued at N2,368,380,000, 955kg of Colorado Indica with an estimated worth of N1,911,400,000, as well as 5 pistols, 445 rounds of live ammunition, and various empty pistol magazines. 

Stating the significance of collaboration in combating illicit activities, Maiwadah quoted CGC Adeniyi as saying, “Just as criminals find strength in collaboration, government agencies must equally appreciate the advantages of working collectively to fulfill their statutory responsibilities.” 

He noted the positive outcomes of the ongoing partnership between NCS and NDLEA, indicating the joint commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders and protecting citizens from the threats posed by illegal substances. 

“The collaborative synergy exemplifies the effectiveness of pooling resources and intelligence,” he stressed.

The customs boss also handed over the seized items to Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa, Chairman of NDLEA, represented by the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi. 

Commending the synergy between the two agencies, Brig. Gen. Marwa’s representative described the collaboration as a strong warning to drug cartels, signalling their continuous losses in the criminal trade.

He was quoted as saying, “The seizure is a testament that, just like the Airports, the Sea Ports are also secured.” 

As security agencies persist in securing the nation’s territory, successful interception sends a resounding message to those involved in illegal activities across ports.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College (NCCSC) in Gwagwalada witnessed a significant event on January 23, 2024, as the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, inaugurated the Senior Course 10 and Junior Course 18.

This inauguration marks a crucial step in shaping the career trajectories of the participating officers. 

Represented by the Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Saidu Galadima, CGC Adeniyi encouraged the participants to seize the golden opportunity to enrich their careers within the Customs service.

He highlighted ongoing discussions with prestigious Nigerian universities for potential postgraduate degrees upon course completion, underscoring the importance of generating innovative ideas for the service’s transformation. 

“I encourage you to make positive impacts and view your facilitators as role models, aspiring to become like them in the future,” remarked the CG.

He further urged trainers to provide attentive support to participants in their studies and welfare matters, noting the importance of acquiring knowledge for propelling the service forward. 

DCG Saidu Galadima expressed confidence in the participants, assuring them of the CGC’s commitment to supporting any officer eager to enhance their capacity.

He stated that the participants would undoubtedly make the service proud as drivers of positive transformation. 

The Commandant of the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, Gwagwalada, Assistant Comptroller-General Kingsley Emeka, highlighted the critical role of the course in enabling participants to progress in their noble careers.

Emeka urged the officers to enhance their confidence and competence in areas such as revenue generation, trade facilitation, and national security. 

“The course is designed to develop your Command, leadership, and communication skills to effectively carry out your work in the service. These skills are essential to address challenges confronting modern Customs operations,” explained Emeka. 

He noted the College’s zero-tolerance policy for ineffectiveness and academic dishonesty, stating, “Only students found worthy in character, discipline, and learning are allowed to graduate, as the College strictly forbids academic dishonesty such as exam malpractice, misrepresentation of facts, and plagiarism.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Customs Service has reaffirmed its dedication to bolstering border security and trade facilitation by engaging officers in comprehensive capacity-building workshops.

The announcement came from the Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, during the inauguration of a 5-day workshop on ‘Rules of Origin’ at the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College Gwagwalada. 

In collaboration with the Alliance for Trade Facilitation, GIZ, and the World Customs Organisation (WCO), the workshop aims to equip 25 officers with in-depth expertise in trade facilitation, enabling their active participation in the Africa Continental Free Trade Area.

CGC Adeniyi, represented by DCG Abdullahi Musa, noted the importance of collaboration with development partners for capacity building, highlighting the workshop’s role in strengthening the Nigeria Customs Service. 

DCG Musa conveyed, “So far, the Nigeria Customs Service has been designated the competent authority for issuing Certificates of Origin. Over the next five days, 25 officers will undergo intensive training on the Rules of Origin.” 

Lead origin expert for the WCO, Mette Azzam, highlighted the collaboration’s significance and stressed the increasing global importance of understanding Rules of Origin, especially with the rise of Free Trade Agreements.

Azzam stated the potential consequences of incorrectly determining the value of goods, including inaccurate duty payments. 

Assistant Comptroller-General ACG Ibrahim Alfa urged participants to pay close attention to the workshop’s teachings, stating its vital role in enhancing the Service’s efficiency in revenue generation.

Alfa reiterated the focus on correctly determining the preferential value of goods to avoid erroneous duty payments, underlining the workshop’s relevance to the evolving landscape of international trade agreements. 

The 5-day workshop, a collaborative effort with international partners, is set to empower 25 officers from the Nigeria Customs Service through intensive training, discussions, and assessments on the Rules of Origin.

The overarching goal is to enhance officers’ expertise and contribute to the successful implementation of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area.