The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in partnership with the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), has launched a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at boosting port efficiency and strengthening Nigeria’s trade competitiveness.
The initiative was unveiled at a three-day operational workshop held in Lagos recently, with the theme “Customs Leadership in Port Efficiency, Inspection Reform and Clearance Timeline.”
Speaking at the event, Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, outlined a five-point strategy centred on joint inspections, risk-based cargo clearance, improved scanning infrastructure, strict enforcement of service timelines, and enhanced inter-agency collaboration. He noted that the focus has shifted from policy formulation to effective implementation.
According to Adeniyi, the Service is prioritising intelligence-led cargo processing to ensure that investments in digital platforms and scanning systems translate into faster and more transparent clearance procedures.
He disclosed that the workshop would produce a reform implementation matrix to be closely monitored, adding that he would personally track progress to ensure accountability and sustained performance.
Director-General of PEBEC, Zahrah Mustapha-Audu, emphasised the need for data-driven inspection processes, stressing that targeting high-risk consignments would reduce delays and lower the cost of doing business.
“We must move from inspecting everything to inspecting the right thing,” she said, highlighting the importance of efficient border processes in enhancing Nigeria’s trade position.
Also speaking, Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Tariff and Trade, Caroline Niagwan, said the evolving role of the Service places it at the centre of trade facilitation and economic growth, noting that efficiency must be reflected across all commands.
As part of the engagement, the NCS and PEBEC delegation visited the National Single Window facility, where they met with the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji, and other stakeholders to review progress and address operational challenges.
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