By Nkechi Eze
Each year on January 26, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) joins the World Customs Organization (WCO) and customs agencies around the world to mark International Customs Day. In 2025, the theme is: “Customs delivering on its commitment to efficiency, security and prosperity,” and the Nigeria Customs is proud of its work towards these objectives over the last year.
The event which was held at its Corporate Headquarters in Abuja served as an opportunity for introspection and reaffirmed dedication, showcasing the Service impressive achievements while also outlining its ambitious plans for the future.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, in his core message highlighted that Nigeria Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity is a crucial focus area.
Stressing that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is committed to three core objectives: Facilitating Legitimate Trader, Securing Borders, and Fostering Economic Growth. These pillars are according to the CGC are fundamental to the NCS’s operations and guide its efforts to promote economic development while ensuring the safety and security of Nigeria’s borders.
Speaking on Revenue and Economic Contributions, Adeniyi stated that the NCS achieved remarkable milestones in 2024, with an unprecedented revenue collection of ₦6.1 trillion, surpassing its target by 20.2% and recording a 90.4% year-over-year increase.
Noting some Key Achievements, he added that with regards to trade Facilitation, the NCS facilitated imports valued at ₦60.29 trillion and exports worth ₦136.65 trillion, also on Strategic Concessions, the Service provided concessions totaling ₦1.68 trillion to stimulate industrial growth and economic development across various sectors.
Reaffirming the NCS dedication to streamlining operations. The CGC stated that worthy of note is the Advanced Ruling System, which provides binding decisions on classification and valuation before shipments arrive, has significantly reduced clearance delays and disputes. Furthermore, the implementation of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program which has resulted in a 66.9% decrease in cargo clearance times, with certified companies benefiting from an average release time of 43 hours.
Adeniyi also spotlighted the groundbreaking achievement in developing and deploying the indigenous ‘B’Odogwu’ customs clearance platform, Launched in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to the CGC, this innovative system has already demonstrated impressive results, processing transactions worth billions of naira in revenue during its pilot phase.
While speaking on intensifying security efforts he noted that “In terms of security, globally there is increasingly a complex interplay between illicit trade, technological advancement, and transnational criminal networks. In addressing these challenges, the Service like other customs administrations, focuses on several critical risk domains identified by the World Customs Organization which includes; Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-terrorism Financing, noting that NCS maintains vigilance against bulk cash smuggling, trade-based money laundering, and illicit trafficking of high-value commodities.
Cultural Heritage Protection, our enforcement efforts safeguard against the illicit trafficking of cultural objects and artifacts, particularly given increasing global concerns about trafficking from conflict zones.
Drug Trafficking, we have intensified our response to evolving narcotics threats, particularly addressing the shift from traditional narcotics to pharmaceutical and synthetic drug abuse. In 2024, this resulted in 105 seizures of narcotics and illicit drugs.
Environmental Protection, our enforcement actions against wildlife trafficking, illegal timber trade, and hazardous waste smuggling saw significant success, with 76 seizures of animal/wildlife products valued at ₦5.93 billion” He said.
With regards to enhancing security, the NCS has also taken significant steps by incorporating advanced technologies, including geo-spatial technology, sophisticated scanning systems, and technology-driven risk assessment protocols, into its operations.
Looking ahead to 2025 and the future, the NCS boss outlined ambitious goals that aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policy direction and global customs best practices. Some of the key initiatives include: Nationwide Trade Modernization: Deploying trade modernization projects across the country to streamline customs processes, AEO Program Expansion: Expanding the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program to enhance trade facilitation and security and Nigeria Customs Service University: Establishing a university for trade and technology to develop the skills and expertise of customs officers.
The CGC, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, expressed gratitude for the support of President Tinubu, the Honourable Minister of Finance, and international partners, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving the Service’s goals.
Finally, Adeniyi reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to excellence, pledging to drive efficiency, ensure security, and foster prosperity for a stronger Nigeria. “The NCS remains dedicated and steadfast to delivering on its mandate, playing a vital role in national development and adapting to the evolving demands of global trade and security” he said.
