By Nkechi Eze
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has applauded British American Tobacco (BAT) Nigeria for its strong commitment to regulatory compliance, urging other investors operating in the country to emulate the company’s business model.
According to the CGC, BAT’s compliance with regulatory requirements, contribution to government revenue, job creation and support for local agriculture demonstrate how responsible business practices can contribute to Nigeria’s economic development.
Adeniyi made the remarks on Monday, September 14, 2026, during a visit to the BAT manufacturing factory in Ibadan, Oyo State, where he described the facility as an example of the kind of investment needed to support economic diversification.
“As a customs officer, I cannot but notice the high level of commitment to compliance. So I’m indeed very, very grateful. And I would say that this is one investment that Nigeria got right, and I wish we could have so many companies giving this kind of opportunity and giving back this much to Nigeria,” he said.
The Customs boss noted that BAT contributes to government revenue through customs duties on imports and excise duties on goods manufactured locally, while its operations also provide employment opportunities and support agricultural activities.
He said the company’s model aligns with the Federal Government’s efforts under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to develop a non-oil, export-led economy and create an environment that supports legitimate businesses and investments.
Adeniyi said the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) had also strengthened its export facilitation mechanisms as part of efforts to support the Federal Government’s economic diversification agenda.
“We have established a terminal, a command that is specifically looking after issues of exports. So that’s the only thing they do in that particular command in Lagos. We have a number of exports processing terminals in and around Lagos that are tied to that command where exports are being processed,” he said.
He urged investors to take their cue from BAT by maintaining high standards of compliance and integrity while ensuring that their businesses make positive contributions to the communities where they operate.
“In terms of size, this is probably the biggest in terms of size of operation in Africa. So we invite other investors; they should take their cue from here,” Adeniyi said.
He added that investors who operate within established rules and demonstrate corporate responsibility could help create a mutually beneficial relationship between businesses and the Nigerian government through increased investment, revenue generation, employment and broader economic growth.
As part of the visit, the CGC participated in a tree-planting exercise in support of BAT’s environmental sustainability initiative and also toured the company’s manufacturing facility.
