The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is set to undergo significant transformations under the leadership of its newly appointed Acting Comptroller-General (CG), Adewale Adeniyi.
With a focus on collaboration, engagement with international organizations, and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, the NCS aims to revolutionize customs practices and unlock its full potential.
Acting CG Adewale Adeniyi assumed his position on June 19, 2023, while attending the Policy Commission and Council meetings of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) in Brussels, Belgium.
Leveraging this global platform, he actively participated in discussions within the global Customs community, advocating for the exploration of AI-driven solutions and advanced geo-spatial intelligence approaches.
He said technologies like Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions and GEOINT have the potential to enhance communication, decision-making processes, and enforcement operations within Customs.
The NCS has already taken steps to embrace cutting-edge technologies by establishing a GEOINT unit. This unit leverages geospatial data, mapping techniques, and satellite imagery to gain valuable insights for customs operations. Collaborative efforts are underway to operationalize the use of GEOINT, improving the efficiency of NCS enforcement operations and overall effectiveness. These advancements highlight the NCS’s proactive approach to adopting innovative technologies.
Adeniyi also engaged in strategic discussions with partners such as the WCO, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Japan Customs Administration. These discussions aim to garner support for the establishment of a customs Laboratory, a significant milestone in enhancing customs operations and trade facilitation in Nigeria.
The NCS Laboratory will address challenges such as counterfeit goods, smuggling, and non-compliant imports, bolstering revenue generation and ensuring public health and safety. Equipped with advanced analytical capabilities, the laboratory will enable precise identification, verification, and classification of goods, leading to efficient enforcement measures and informed decision-making.
It will foster trust and credibility within Nigeria’s trade ecosystem, marking a transformative step towards seamless customs operations, trade competitiveness, and national economic growth.
Adeniyi engaged in fruitful discussions with relevant experts and donors, focusing on crucial areas such as conducting a Time Release Study (TRS), implementing the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and leadership and management development.
These discussions highlight his commitment to comprehensive improvements and his willingness to adopt innovative solutions across various customs domains, ultimately enhancing customs operations.
The outcome of the council meeting resulted in the election of Ian Saunders from the United States as the new Secretary General of the WCO.
This election signifies the significance of the council meeting and the influential role played by the NCS in shaping the future of customs operations globally.
Under the leadership of Acting CG Adeniyi, the Nigeria Customs Service embarks on an exciting journey towards enhanced customs efficiency. Through international collaborations, engagement with the WCO, exploration of AI-driven solutions, and strategic discussions, the NCS is pioneering innovative projects that will shape the future of customs practices in Nigeria.
With a strong emphasis on technology and international partnerships, the NCS is well-positioned to make substantial advancements in customs operations, benefiting trade facilitation, security, and operational effectiveness.