Customs, NCC Strengthen Collaboration on Device Monitoring, Security, and Public Safety

Customs, NCC Strengthen Collaboration on Device Monitoring, Security, and Public Safety

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have pledged deeper collaboration to boost revenue generation, safeguard national security, and protect consumers by strengthening the monitoring of imported communication devices.

Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, gave the assurance on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, when he received the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Aminu Maida, and his team on a courtesy visit to the Customs Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.

Adeniyi said the Service was increasingly focused on the security implications of unregulated technology imports, beyond its core revenue mandate. He stressed that closer synergy with the NCC would enhance monitoring systems to ensure only certified devices are allowed into the country.

“Technology-related imports such as mobile phones, network boosters, and other telecom equipment must undergo proper certification and tariff classification,” the CGC stated. “This will not only improve revenue but also ensure that only authorised importers bring these items into Nigeria.”

He further disclosed that Customs would collaborate with the NCC to train officers on certification processes and harmonise tariff codes with regulated devices to curb abuses at the borders. Adeniyi also underscored the importance of inter-agency vigilance in urban centres like Abuja, where high-rise buildings, places of worship, and sensitive institutions demand stronger disaster-prevention measures.

In his remarks, Maida congratulated Adeniyi on his recent election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council, describing it as a testament to his leadership both locally and globally.

He explained that the NCC’s Device Management System (DMS), which tracks imported phones and blocks substandard devices, would not only support Customs in boosting revenue but also improve telecom service quality nationwide.

“One of the least understood factors affecting service quality is the device itself,” Maida said. “If subscribers use substandard phones, no matter the level of investment by operators, network quality will remain poor. That is why the DMS is critical.”

The NCC boss also raised concerns about the importation and use of uncertified network boosters, which, while beneficial to individuals, often distort signals and undermine network efficiency. He called for Customs’ cooperation in restricting the entry of such devices into Nigeria.

Maida assured that the Commission would sustain and deepen its collaboration with the NCS to curb revenue leakages and protect consumers, saying, “The spirit of partnership between our agencies must continue for the benefit of the economy and the Nigerian people.”