Customs CG conferred with NIIA Fellowship
… Says Customs transformation in tandem with AfCFTA objectives
Maureen Aguta
The Comptroller General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi, said Nigeria Customs giant strides towards total paperless processes, fostering trade facilitation, fortifying capabilities for Rules of Origin (ROO), Implementation of Advance Ruling, Authorised Economic Operators (AEO), and engaging with the business community; are harmonise with the continental goals of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The Comptroller General who was a Distinguished Lecturer at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos, on Thursday, 16th November 2023, delivered a lecture titled, “Nigeria’s Economic Growth and Development: Reforming and Positioning the Customs Service for the African Continental Free Trade and Other Emerging Challenges.”
CGC Adeniyi stated that while the mandate to generate revenue for the government remains paramount, the evolving landscape demands equal attention to trade facilitation.
His words: “Recognising the multifaceted role of the Nigeria Customs Service, it becomes imperative to manage expectations regarding revenue generation. Striking a balance between facilitating trade and meeting revenue targets requires a nuanced approach.”
“This involves making informed trade-offs that translate into fostering sustainable economic development, particularly for small and medium-scale entrepreneurs. The NCS must navigate these intricacies adeptly to not only meet fiscal objectives but also contribute significantly to the growth and resilience of Nigeria’s economic landscape”.
He noted that there is a pressing need to put Africans at the heart of Customs Operations, stressing that the inadequacy of transparent communication channels has contributed to misunderstandings and inefficiencies in trade operations, posing challenges for both customs and the business community.
Adeniyi said, “A transformative recommendation is to establish regular consultation platforms that prioritise transparent communication channels for constructive feedback from stakeholders.”
“This proactive engagement strategy aims to dismantle historical barriers, ensuring that the customs operations are not only efficient but also reflective of the needs and perspectives of the diverse African business community,” he added.
The CGC was later conferred with the Fellowship of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA)by the Director General of the Institute, Professor Eghosa Osaghae.