Nigeria Customs Service Celebrates International Customs Day 2025 with Record-Breaking Achievements
Nigeria Customs Service Celebrates International Customs Day 2025 with Record-Breaking Achievements
In his keynote address, Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, emphasized the importance of the World Customs Organization’s (WCO) 2025 theme: “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity.” Adeniyi underscored the NCS's dedication to facilitating legitimate trade, securing borders, and fostering economic growth, which form the cornerstone of its operations.
Record-Breaking Revenue and Economic Contributions
Adeniyi announced the Service’s unprecedented revenue collection of ₦6.1 trillion in 2024, exceeding its target by 20.2% and achieving a 90.4% year-over-year increase. Additionally, the NCS facilitated imports valued at ₦60.29 trillion and exports worth ₦136.65 trillion. Strategic concessions totaling ₦1.68 trillion were provided to stimulate industrial growth and economic development across various sectors.
Modernization and Trade Facilitation Efforts
The NCS's commitment to operational efficiency was showcased through several milestones. The Advanced Ruling System, which provides binding decisions on classification and valuation before shipments arrive, has significantly reduced clearance delays and disputes. Similarly, the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program has cut cargo clearance times by 66.9%, achieving an average release time of 43 hours for certified companies.
Adeniyi also highlighted the indigenous development and deployment of the 'B’Odogwu' customs clearance platform. Launched in late 2024, the system has already processed transactions worth billions of naira in revenue during its pilot phase.
Strengthening Security Measures
In response to the growing complexities of transnational crime and illicit trade, the NCS has intensified its focus on critical risk areas. Key achievements in 2024 include:
- Anti-Money Laundering: Increased vigilance against bulk cash smuggling, trade-based money laundering, and illicit trafficking of high-value commodities.
- Cultural Heritage Protection: Enforcement efforts to prevent the trafficking of cultural objects and artifacts.
- Drug Trafficking: The seizure of 105 narcotics shipments, addressing the rising threat of synthetic drug abuse.
- Environmental Protection: Successful interception of wildlife trafficking, illegal timber trade, and hazardous waste smuggling, resulting in 76 seizures valued at ₦5.93 billion.
To bolster security, the NCS has integrated advanced geo-spatial technology, sophisticated scanning systems, and technology-driven risk assessment protocols into its operations.
Future Plans and Strategic Vision
Looking ahead, Adeniyi outlined the NCS's ambitious goals for 2025, which align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policy direction and global customs best practices. Key initiatives include the nationwide deployment of trade modernization projects, the expansion of the AEO program, and the establishment of the Nigeria Customs Service University for Trade and Technology.
Adeniyi expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of President Tinubu, the Honourable Minister of Finance, Mr. Olawale Edun, and international partners, noting that their collaboration remains vital to the Service's success.
A Commitment to Excellence
As the NCS celebrates International Customs Day, Adeniyi reaffirmed the Service's dedication to excellence in customs administration. He pledged that the NCS will continue to deliver on its mandate, driving efficiency, ensuring security, and fostering prosperity for a stronger and more secure Nigeria.
The event served as a testament to the NCS's vital role in national development and its readiness to adapt to the evolving demands of global trade and security.
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