The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is embracing a new vision for 2025, aligning with the World Customs Organisation’s (WCO) theme, “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity.”
Adewale Adeniyi, the comptroller general of Customs, says the Service is prioritising trade facilitation, border security, and economic growth this year as the foundation of its operations.
“Our strategic approach harmoniously balances trade facilitation with robust security measures, directly contributing to Nigeria’s economic advancement,” Adeniyi said.
In 2024, the NCS accumulated N6.1 trillion in revenue, surpassing its target by 20.2 percent and achieving a 90.4 percent increase from the previous year. The Service also managed imports worth N60.29 trillion and exports of N136.65 trillion, Adeniyi reported.
To ease the challenges of trade, the Customs Service implemented innovative measures to reduce delays and simplify processes.
Among these is the Advanced Ruling System, which provides binding decisions on the classification and valuation of goods before they arrive in Nigeria. This system, according to Adeniyi, has significantly reduced disputes and clearance delays.
Also, The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme, launched by the WCO in 2007, has cut cargo clearance time by 66.9 percent, with certified companies now experiencing an average release time of 43 hours.
Additionally, the recently developed B’Odogwu customs clearance platform, though experiencing its own challenges, has already processed billions in transactions during its pilot phase.
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“These advancements are making the trading experience soothing for Nigerians,” Adeniyi noted, asserting the Service’s strides in modernisation.
Beyond trade facilitation, Customs is stepping up its efforts to combat illicit trade and secure Nigeria’s borders. Adeniyi outlined several areas of focus, including anti-money laundering, drug trafficking, and cultural heritage protection.
“In 2024, we made 105 seizures of narcotics and illicit drugs and prevented the trafficking of cultural objects and artifacts,” he said. The Service also recorded 76 seizures of wildlife products and hazardous waste, valued at N5.93 billion, as part of its commitment to environmental protection.
To strengthen enforcement, the NCS is investing in geo-spatial technology, advanced scanners, and data-driven risk assessment systems. Adeniyi also stressed the importance of collaboration, saying, “No single agency can effectively combat the complexities of smuggling without the support and cooperation of others.”
With the support of President Tinubu’s administration, the NCS is confident of further modernising its operations in 2025.
Plans include the nationwide deployment of trade modernisation initiatives, expanded AEO implementation, and the establishment of the Nigeria Customs Service University for Trade and Technology.
Reflecting on the global customs agenda, Ian Saunders, the WCO Secretary General described efficiency, security, and prosperity as permanent goals.
“Efficiency is powered by modernising procedures and engaging with public and private entities. Security ensures the safety of supply chains, while prosperity fosters sustainable economic growth,” Saunders said.
For Adeniyi and his team, these principles are already guiding their efforts. “We renew our pledge to excellence in customs administration, united in our mission to forge a more secure and prosperous Nigeria through efficient service delivery,” he said.
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