The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the American Business Council (ABC) have intensified efforts to strengthen trade relations and create a more business-friendly environment through closer collaboration and regular stakeholder engagement.
This formed the focus of discussions during the Council’s quarterly meeting with the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service held at the Service Headquarters in Abuja on June 16, 2026. The engagement provided a platform for both parties to examine ways of improving trade processes, enhancing security measures, and expanding economic cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.
Addressing participants at the meeting, Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue with the private sector in achieving effective trade facilitation. He disclosed that the Customs Service plans to make such engagements a regular feature of its operations to ensure continuous interaction with key stakeholders.
The Customs boss highlighted several ongoing reforms aimed at modernising customs administration and improving service delivery. These include the implementation of the Advance Ruling system, expansion of the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) scheme, strengthening of Post Clearance Audit processes, deployment of the B’Odogwu digital platform, and improvements in cargo scanning and clearance procedures.
According to him, the reforms are designed to reduce delays, enhance transparency, and promote greater efficiency in cross-border trade activities.
Representatives of the American Business Council commended the Service for its commitment to reform and acknowledged the progress recorded in simplifying trade procedures. They, however, stressed the need for faster resolution of lingering operational issues affecting businesses and investors.
Speaking on behalf of the Council, its President, Mrs. Nneka Enwereji, described the engagement as constructive and impactful, noting that the Customs Service had demonstrated a strong commitment to improving the ease of doing business in Nigeria.
She observed that the ongoing reforms and openness to stakeholder feedback were helping to build confidence among investors and the international business community.
The meeting ended with both parties reaffirming their commitment to maintaining a strong partnership geared towards boosting trade, attracting investment, and supporting economic growth through efficient customs administration and a more enabling business environment.
