The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified efforts to drive the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) with the launch of a three-day capacity-building programme focused on Rules of Origin.
The training, which commenced on March 31, 2026, is scheduled to conclude on April 2, 2026. It is designed to equip key stakeholders with the technical expertise required to strengthen Nigeria’s participation in intra-African trade under the AfCFTA framework.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, represented by Assistant Comptroller General in charge of Strategic Research and Policy, Nafiu Isiaku, described the initiative as pivotal to enhancing trade facilitation and enforcement.
He emphasised that Rules of Origin remain a cornerstone of economic integration, noting that their proper interpretation and implementation are essential for ensuring trade preference, transparency, and competitiveness across African markets.
According to him, the workshop is structured to deliver both technical knowledge and practical skills, including planning, execution, and evaluation, to support effective nationwide implementation.
In his remarks, the National Coordinator of AfCFTA, Olusegun Olutayo, described the training as a major step in Nigeria’s shift from policy formulation to full-scale implementation of the continental trade agreement.
He stressed that AfCFTA must go beyond policy discussions to deliver tangible economic benefits such as job creation, increased income, and expanded opportunities for Nigerians.
Olutayo also highlighted the importance of raising awareness and equipping businesses with practical knowledge of Rules of Origin to enhance their competitiveness within African markets.
He commended the Presidency and acknowledged the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting economic growth initiatives. He further appreciated development partners, including the World Customs Organization and the European Union, for their continued technical and capacity-building support.
Participants at the training were urged to fully engage with the programme and apply the knowledge gained to ensure Nigerian businesses are not disadvantaged due to lack of awareness.
The initiative is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s readiness to maximise the opportunities presented by AfCFTA and improve its competitiveness in continental trade.
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