The Customs Consultative Committee (CCC) expressed felicitations to Comptroller Dera Nnadi mni, Tin-Can Island Customs Command, on his appointment as Chairman of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Trade Facilitation/Time Release Study Implementation Committee. The announcement coincides with the initiation of Time Release Studies by the NCS, as affirmed by Comptroller General Bashir Adewale during the 2023 CGC conference in Lagos.
In a congratulatory message relayed via a press statement by Fwdr. Eugene Nweke Rff. Secretary, the CCC highlighted Comptroller Nnadi’s meritorious appointment, recognizing his integral role as a pioneer member of the trade tool domestication and development team focusing on Time Release Study (TRS).
The statement acknowledged Nnadi’s commendable representation of the Service during the government’s port reforms program, particularly during the ports concessions process from 2005 to 2006. It noted his involvement as the Public Relations Officer of NCS Apapa Command during the migration from NCS Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) to subsequent systems, notably ASYCUDA 2.7 Site and ASUCUDA ++, laying the groundwork for NICIS.
Furthermore, the press release highlighted Nnadi’s contributions to the Committee facilitating NCS’s transition from manual to e-Payment with Apapa Command and Ecobank as pilot, alongside his accreditation from the prestigious School Of Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos/Plateau State.
The CCC expressed confidence in Nnadi’s ability to execute the vision and mandate of the Comptroller General Of Customs and his management team, aligning with the administration’s renewed hope mantra, led by His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Addressing the paramount significance of the appointment in advancing the TRADE FACILITATION functions of the Nigeria Customs Service, the CCC urged Nnadi and his committee members to handle their duties with honor, passion, professionalism, and utmost commitment for the greater good of Nigerians and the trading public.
Emphasizing the critical role of trade facilitation in the nation’s economy, particularly in the transportation and logistics industry, the CCC encouraged Nnadi’s committee to prioritize:
– Compliance with international standards outlined in WCO/WTO/UNCTAD recommendations.
– Ensuring security, safety, and fluidity of trade and upholding the model of port value adding supply chain.
– Streamlining legitimate trade facilitation to reduce administrative burdens on businesses.
– Upholding firm regulatory essence and strategic collaboration to safeguard businesses’ interests, particularly in intellectual property rights (IPR).
– Safeguarding revenue, safety, and product quality during international transport.
– Utilizing data analytics for national statistics, planning, forecasting, and administrative goals.
The CCC also called for collaboration and compliance with Customs trade laws and regulations among business interests, the trading public, and relevant agencies to ensure the legal, smooth flow, and efficient movement of goods during clearance processes.
In conclusion, the Customs Consultative Committee congratulated Comptroller Nnadi and his committee members, extending prayers for guidance in executing their responsibilities.