The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reiterated its commitment to trade facilitation, firmly anchored on transparency, integrity and strict regulatory compliance, as the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, engaged officers and stakeholders during an official working visit to the Kano/Jigawa Area Command.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement held on Thursday, 19 December 2025, in Kano, the CGC emphasised that sustainable trade facilitation can only be achieved within the framework of full compliance with Customs laws and procedures. He noted that while the Service remains committed to easing legitimate trade, such efforts must align with established regulations.
Addressing officers of the Command, Adeniyi charged them to uphold discipline, professionalism and dedication in the discharge of their duties, stressing that the credibility and effectiveness of the Service depend largely on the conduct of its personnel. According to him, “The strength of the Nigeria Customs Service lies in the integrity, dedication and discipline of its officers. Without these core values, neither trade facilitation nor national development can be sustainably achieved.”
The CGC commended the Customs Area Controller, Kano/Jigawa Area Command, Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar, for his leadership and performance, particularly in revenue generation and stakeholder engagement. He described Abubakar as one of the best-performing Area Controllers in the Service, noting that his innovative approach to stakeholder management earned him recognition at the Service’s last award ceremony.
During an interactive session with stakeholders, Adeniyi reaffirmed the Service’s openness to constructive ideas and innovations capable of improving trade processes, provided there is strict adherence to laid-down procedures. “For us, the basic requirement is compliance. Once there is compliance, we are open to ideas that will facilitate trade,” he stated.
On ongoing reforms, the CGC highlighted the impact of technology deployment within the Service, citing the indigenous Customs clearance platform, B’Odogwu, as a key driver of transparency and operational efficiency. He also disclosed that the introduction of electronic tracking devices for transit containers has recorded significant success, leading to the interception of diverted consignments and the arrest of offenders. He assured stakeholders that the Service would sustain the momentum.
In his remarks, Comptroller Abubakar Dalhatu expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their sustained cooperation, describing them as critical partners in achieving the Command’s mandate. He noted that the level of collaboration in Kano reflects trust, shared responsibility and mutual commitment between the Service and its stakeholders.
Stakeholders from various sectors commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its reforms and improved engagement, expressing satisfaction with the growing synergy, openness and initiatives aimed at strengthening compliance, optimising revenue and facilitating legitimate trade.
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