The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has renewed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) to enhance trade facilitation, border management, and revenue generation across the country.
The pledge was made by Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, during a courtesy visit by the newly elected NACCIMA President, Jani Ibrahim, and his executive team at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja on Sunday.
Adeniyi emphasised that the NCS is prioritising a balanced approach that ensures national security while promoting efficient trade operations.
“When I assumed office, one of my main focuses was collaboration. Revenue and security are crucial, but to achieve sustainable success, trade facilitation must be at the core of our operations.
Today, I assure you that we are fully committed to working hand in hand with NACCIMA.
Special desks will be established to support your members and resolve any implementation issues swiftly,” Adeniyi stated.
The CGC also highlighted ongoing reforms in the service, including the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, indigenous digital platforms such as B’odogwu, Time-Release Studies, and improvements to the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR).
These initiatives, he said, have significantly reduced bureaucratic bottlenecks, lowered cargo dwell times, and enhanced Nigeria’s standing in global trade.
In his remarks, NACCIMA President Jani Ibrahim congratulated Adeniyi on his election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation Council, describing it as a recognition of Nigeria’s growing influence in global customs administration.
Ibrahim further commended President Bola Tinubu for extending Adeniyi’s tenure, saying it demonstrates confidence in the ongoing transformational reforms within the NCS.
“The private sector, led by NACCIMA and other organised stakeholders, is committed to supporting the NCS in its mandate.
We strongly advocate for the establishment of a Joint Technical Facilitation Committee comprising representatives from both NCS and NACCIMA.
This committee will serve as a platform for regular consultation, monitoring, and measurable progress on all areas of collaboration,” Ibrahim said.
The partnership is expected to significantly reduce the cost of doing business in Nigeria, improve operational efficiency at ports and borders, and position the country strategically under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
According to both parties, this cooperation will also strengthen compliance, reduce smuggling, and create a more transparent trading environment.
Experts say that Nigeria’s trade and investment landscape stands to benefit immensely from such collaborations.
With the private sector closely aligned with customs operations, companies can expect faster clearance times, fewer delays, and reduced bureaucratic hurdles, which could boost foreign direct investment and expand local industries.
Adeniyi concluded the meeting by reaffirming the NCS’s commitment to openness and stakeholder engagement.
“We are dedicated to continuous dialogue with the private sector to ensure that our trade policies, processes, and innovations are not only transparent but also conducive to business growth.
This partnership with NACCIMA is a model for how public-private cooperation can transform trade facilitation in Nigeria,” he said.
With the establishment of dedicated desks, ongoing digital reforms, and a Joint Technical Facilitation Committee, the NCS and NACCIMA’s partnership marks a significant step toward a more efficient, secure, and business-friendly trade environment in Nigeria.