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Tag: Nigeria Customs Service

  • CGC Adeniyi Advocates Human-Centred Digital Transformation at UNILORIN International Conference

    CGC Adeniyi Advocates Human-Centred Digital Transformation at UNILORIN International Conference

    The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi MFR has once again reaffirmed his commitment to responsible digital transformation and innovation-driven governance, as he delivered a keynote address at the 4th Biennial International Conference organised by the Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences, University of Ilorin, in collaboration with the Faculty of Philology, RUDN University, Russia.

    The international conference, themed “Disruptive Technology: Human and Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Economy,” held on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, at the University of Ilorin Main Auditorium, brought together academics, communication scholars, technology experts, researchers, head of sister agencies, and policymakers to examine the growing impact of digital innovation and artificial intelligence on governance, education, trade, and economic development.

    Speaking during the conference, CGC Adeniyi emphasised the need for institutions to strike a balance between technological advancement and human responsibility, noting that the future of the digital economy depends not only on artificial intelligence but also on ethics, leadership, and institutional competence.

    “The digital age is, in the end, a human story, and the real test of our generation is not how powerful our machines become, but how wisely our societies choose to use them,” Adeniyi stated.

    He observed that disruptive technology has already transformed global systems through digital payments, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and smart technologies, stressing that the world is no longer preparing for disruption but already operating within it.

    According to him, the role of government institutions is to ensure that innovation strengthens public trust, transparency, and operational efficiency rather than weakening accountability structures.

    Drawing from the Nigeria Customs Service experience, the CGC highlighted the Service’s ongoing digital transformation initiatives, particularly the deployment of the B’Odogwu Unified Customs Management System, which has enhanced trade facilitation, cargo processing, and inter-agency collaboration.

    He disclosed that the platform generated over N230 billion at the PTML Command within its first eight months of deployment, while cargo clearance timelines for compliant traders had been reduced to less than eight hours.

    “The partnership, not the rivalry, between human and artificial intelligence is where the real value lies,” he said, adding that technology remains most effective when guided by clear institutional purpose and strong ethical standards.

    Adeniyi further stressed that while artificial intelligence can improve efficiency, risk management, and decision-making, human expertise and leadership remain central to effective governance and enforcement operations.

    “Technology changes processes; leadership and expertise still deliver the results,” he added.

    The CGC also called for stronger collaboration among universities, research institutions, and public agencies to develop practical solutions to emerging digital and governance challenges. He noted that universities must move beyond theoretical learning to become active drivers of innovation and policy development.

    He identified several research areas where academia can support Customs modernisation efforts, including digital compliance systems, artificial intelligence-driven risk targeting, public trust communication strategies, and governance of cross-border data flows.

    Adeniyi further urged African countries to develop locally relevant digital governance frameworks rooted in African realities, legal systems, and developmental priorities, stressing that technological advancement must remain accountable to the citizens it serves.

    On the sidelines of the conference, the CGC engaged with heads of other government agencies, scholars, communication professionals, traditional leaders, and institutional leaders on opportunities for collaboration in digital research, innovation, community development, and capacity development.

  • Adeniyi pledges Deeper Impact as Customs, Yakubu Gowon University Renew Strategic Alliance

    Adeniyi pledges Deeper Impact as Customs, Yakubu Gowon University Renew Strategic Alliance

    The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has pledged to revitalise the long-standing institutional relationship between the Nigeria Customs Service and Yakubu Gowon University (formerly University of Abuja), with renewed support aimed at improving learning, research and student development.

    CGC Adeniyi made the commitment at the Customs Headquarters, Maitama, Abuja, on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, while receiving the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi, who led the institution’s principal officers on a courtesy visit.

    Speaking during the engagement, the Comptroller-General recalled his long-standing institutional relationship with the university, noting that efforts to establish a formal partnership between the two institutions date back several years.

    He said, “I have a long institutional history with this university. During my tenure as Commandant of the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, we made serious efforts to formalise a partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding. We went very far in the process and were close to signing, but leadership changes on both sides affected the process.”

    CGC Adeniyi said that despite the delay, the Service had maintained its support for the institution over the years through strategic interventions. “At different times, we supported the university with transportation facilities, including the provision of a 32-seater bus. We also established a fully equipped computer centre with close to one hundred workstations. These were deliberate efforts aimed at building lasting institutional partnerships.”

    The Customs boss assured the university management that the Service would carefully examine the new areas of collaboration presented during the visit, with emphasis on projects capable of delivering meaningful impact.

    “For us, beyond legacy, what matters most is impact. We understand the realities facing Nigerian universities, from transportation challenges to infrastructure gaps. Our interest is to support initiatives that will create a conducive learning environment and positively impact students,” he stated.

    He added that the Service was ready to work with the university through a phased implementation model, as needed, saying, “If there are multiple projects and we are unable to execute everything at once, we can adopt a phased approach and focus on priority areas that will make the greatest difference.”

    CGC Adeniyi further stressed the importance of having a university in the nation’s capital that reflects the status and identity of the Federal Capital Territory, noting, “It is important for us to have a university in Abuja that truly reflects the status of Nigeria’s capital. I am willing to work with you in that regard.”

    Earlier, Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi commended the leadership of the Comptroller-General and the contributions of the Nigeria Customs Service to national development, describing the Service as one of the institutions supporting the Federal Government’s economic and governance reforms.

    According to him, “We have come with the highest level of leadership of the university to congratulate you and appreciate the tremendous work being done by the Nigeria Customs Service under your leadership.”

    The Vice-Chancellor said the visit was also aimed at exploring areas of strategic partnership between the two institutions, noting that the university, with undergraduate student population of nearly 40,000, faces growing operational and infrastructural demands.

    He said, “As the only conventional public university in the Federal Capital Territory, we face enormous responsibilities. Support in areas such as mass transit buses, ICT infrastructure, research facilities, and professional collaboration will significantly strengthen our capacity.”

    He also identified the university’s Centre for Defence and Migration Studies as a potential area of partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service in border management, migration studies, executive training and national security research.

    “We are ready to partner with the Nigeria Customs Service. The real beneficiaries of such collaboration will be young Nigerians who represent the future leadership of this country,” he said.

  • JRB 159th Meeting: Sanwo-Olu commends LIRS, seeks autonomy for state tax agencies

    JRB 159th Meeting: Sanwo-Olu commends LIRS, seeks autonomy for state tax agencies

    … says IGR driving Lagos development

    Lagos State Governor,  Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday commended the performance of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), describing it as a critical driver of the state’s economic growth, while calling for greater autonomy for tax agencies across the country.

    Sanwo-Olu spoke at the State House, Marina, while hosting members of the Joint Revenue Board (JRB) for its 159th meeting, which began on Monday, April 20, 2026.

    The Joint Revenue Board (JRB) formerly known as the Joint Tax Board (JTB), is made up of the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), chairmen of the 36 State Internal Revenue Services and the Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as well as representatives of key agencies including the Federal Ministry of Finance, National Identity Management Commission, Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service and the Federal Road Safety Corps.

    The governor said Lagos had continued to record significant growth in internally generated revenue due to deliberate reforms implemented by LIRS, noting that IGR now accounts for over 60 per cent of the state’s annual budget.

    Sanwo-Olu disclosed that Lagos generated N1.3tn as internally generated revenue in 2024, representing a 45 per cent increase over the previous year, driven by reforms spearheaded by the LIRS.

    He attributed the growth to sustained investment in digital tax systems, expansion of the tax base, and improved engagement with taxpayers.

    “We can say that our internally generated revenues now account for well over 60 per cent of our budget. It has not happened by sheer luck. It is the result of years of investment in digital tax systems, a push to expand our tax net, and building trust with our taxpayers,” the governor said.

    The governor, however, stressed that for other states to replicate Lagos’ success, tax agencies must be allowed to operate independently without undue political interference.

    He urged state governors to grant full tenure and operational freedom to revenue authorities, warning that frequent leadership disruptions could undermine efficiency and public confidence.

    Sanwo-Olu said, “Governors need to give revenue agencies clear space to work. They need to give them that independence. They need to give them full tenure to do their work. It should not be a situation where a governor comes and wants to disrupt the tenure of the chairman. It is only when they do all of this that the confidence of taxpayers and workers, and subordinates in the system, will be enhanced. I will be pushing my brother governors again for them to understand and appreciate that it is only when they give you what you need to work that they can get the benefits of the expertise that you all have.”

    The governor also said taxes paid by residents and businesses were being translated into visible infrastructure and social projects across the state, stressing that Lagos had become a model for linking revenue generation with development.

    He said, “For us, it is really about our citizens. It is about the people who have given us the trust to believe in us and to pay these taxes. My deputy and I are consistently committed to ensuring that we leave this place a lot better than we found it.”

    Highlighting projects funded through public revenue, the governor cited the Blue and Red Rail Lines, road expansion projects, hospitals and new universities. He said Lagos was building a multi-modal transportation system that would combine rail, water transport and buses to improve movement across the state.

    Earlier, Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Ayodele Subair, said the Joint Revenue Board had become central to strengthening Nigeria’s tax system through coordination and reform implementation.

    He added that the new tax laws had made coordination even more urgent.

    “This meeting comes at a pivotal time following the enactment and implementation of the new tax laws. The JRB is positioning itself to support effective implementation by strengthening coordination across all tiers of government,” he said.

    Subair noted that Lagos’ hosting of the meeting again after five years reflected its economic importance.

    “After a five-year interval, Lagos State is once again honoured to host this important gathering. This reflects the state’s leadership as Nigeria’s economic nerve centre,” he said.

    Speaking on behalf of the Chairman of the Joint Revenue Board, Zacch Adedeji, the Executive Secretary of JRB, Olusegun Adesokan, commended Lagos for its revenue performance and governance reforms.

    He said, “It is no surprise that Lagos State Internal Revenue Service remains the leading subnational revenue authority in Nigeria.”

    Adesokan added that Lagos’ revenue growth reflected long-term reforms.

    “Prior to this, the state’s annual internal revenue was less than N94bn. But today, Lagos generates over N1.7tn annually,” he said.

    He noted that the increase represented a 39 per cent rise year-on-year.

    “These achievements clearly demonstrate how strong revenue performance, when effectively managed, translates into tangible development outcomes for citizens,” he said.

    Adesokan further described Lagos as a benchmark for tax administration in Nigeria.

    “Your sustained support for tax administration underscores the high priority you accord effective revenue administration and its critical contribution to sustainable development,” he said.

    The Executive Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service, Okon Okon, thanked Governor Sanwoolu for hosting the meeting, highlighting the positive experiences of the JRB members in Lagos, especially the Blurail train ride from Marina to Mile 2 and a visit to the Eko Atlantic City.

  • Customs Deepens Grassroots Partnership as Acting Area Controller Visits Ooni of Ife, Ogunsua of Modakeke and Ataoja of Osogbo

    Customs Deepens Grassroots Partnership as Acting Area Controller Visits Ooni of Ife, Ogunsua of Modakeke and Ataoja of Osogbo

    The Acting Customs Area Controller of the Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC) Wale Adewole, on Monday, 23 February 2026, paid courtesy visits to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II; the Ogunsua of Modakeke, Oba Joseph Toriola, Ajibise Ogo I, and the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun Oyetunji, Laroye II,  as part of efforts to strengthen stakeholder engagement and foster community collaboration in the discharge of the Service’s statutory responsibilities.

    During his visit to the palace of the Ooni of Ife, DC Adewole expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded to him and his management team. He described the palace as a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people and sought the support and cooperation of the traditional institution and the wider community in combating smuggling, facilitating legitimate trade, and enhancing national economic security.

    In his response, the Ooni of Ife commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its critical role in trade facilitation, border security, and the suppression of smuggling. He assured the Command of his continued support in promoting lawful economic activities within the domain.

    At the palace of the Ogunsua of Modakeke, the Acting Controller thanked the monarch for his hospitality and acknowledged the vital role traditional rulers play in maintaining peace and security in their communities. He emphasised the importance of community cooperation, particularly in intelligence sharing, to enable the Service effectively carry out its mandate. The Ogunsua of Modakeke commended the Service for its contributions to national development and pledged the support and cooperation of his people toward achieving the Command’s objectives.

    Similarly, at the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo, DC Adewole reiterated the Command’s commitment to strengthening relationships with host communities and traditional institutions. He noted that sustained collaboration remains essential in promoting lawful trade and preventing illicit activities. The Ataoja of Osogbo welcomed the delegation and praised the Nigeria Customs Service for safeguarding the nation’s economy, assuring the Command of the palace’s continued support and cooperation.

    DC Adewole explained that the visits form part of the Command’s strategic efforts to deepen synergy with key stakeholders, particularly traditional institutions whose influence is critical in promoting compliance with Customs laws and advancing national security objectives.

    The Oyo/Osun Area Command reaffirmed its commitment to its core mandates of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and suppression of smuggling, while continuing to build strong partnerships with relevant stakeholders to ensure effective and efficient service delivery.

  • Customs Cares: Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Area Command donates a modern block of Classrooms to community

    Customs Cares: Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Area Command donates a modern block of Classrooms to community

    The Nigeria Customs Service, Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Area Command, has commissioned a modern block of classrooms at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kirikiri, Lagos, as part of its corporate social responsibility, under the Customs Cares framework. The project which was unveiled during a commissioning ceremony held on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, includes fully furnished classrooms, a borehole, water closets, a well-equipped library, and a functional Information and Communication Technology (ICT) centre. This highlights the Service’s commitment to community development.

    The project was initiated under the leadership of the then Customs Area Controller, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Eghosa Joy Edelduok, as a strategic intervention to use education as a tool for rehabilitation, personal transformation, and successful reintegration of inmates into society. She described the facility as more than a physical structure, but a beacon of hope and renewal for inmates, while expressing appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs for his leadership, as well as to the Acting Customs Area Controller, officers, partners, and stakeholders who contributed to the realization of the project.

    Following the redeployment and promotion of ACG Edelduok, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Lukman Adigun, assumed leadership of the Command, sustained the momentum of the project, and ensured its successful completion. In his remarks, he highlighted the facility’s impact in providing hope, practical skills, and learning opportunities for inmates, demonstrating the value of continuity, dedication, and teamwork in public service.

    The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD, reaffirmed that the Nigeria Customs Service, through the Customs Cares initiative, will continue to implement impactful social interventions aligned with sustainable development priorities, particularly in education, health, water provision, and literacy. He commended ACG Edelduok for her foresight and commitment in initiating the project and described the facility as a practical expression of the Service’s resolve to go beyond trade facilitation and border security to touch lives, transform communities, and build a more inclusive society.

    The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Correctional Service, Sylvester Nwakuche, represented by Deputy Comptroller-General Amos Kupan, praised the Nigeria Customs Service for the initiative, describing it as a clear demonstration of corporate social responsibility and support for the rehabilitation mandate of the Service. He noted that the facility will enhance the learning environment within the custodial centre and strengthen educational and vocational training programmes, while also commending the partnership between both institutions in advancing nation-building and human capital development.

    Stakeholders also applauded the initiative, commending the Nigeria Customs Service for extending its impact beyond statutory responsibilities to uplift humanity and strengthen communities.

    The Comptroller-General of Customs formally commissioned the facility and toured the project, stating the Service’s commitment to initiatives that promote social development and sustainable national growth.

  • Oyo/Osun Area Command align with Security agencies and Traditional Institutions

    Oyo/Osun Area Command align with Security agencies and Traditional Institutions

    The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, reaffirmed its commitment to enhanced collaboration with critical stakeholders through a series of strategic courtesy and familiarisation visits aimed at strengthening security, improving intelligence sharing, and fostering mutual cooperation.

     In line with this objective, the Operational Headquarters of the Command recently hosted the Nigerian Air Force Works Station, Ibadan, led by Air Commodore D.U. Njoku, who paid a familiarisation visit alongside his delegation. The team was warmly received by the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Wale Moses Adewole, and the principal officers of the Command.

    During the visit, Air Commodore Njoku emphasised the importance of sustained inter-agency synergy in addressing emerging security challenges and safeguarding national interests. He noted that effective collaboration among security agencies remains vital to combating smuggling, economic sabotage, and other transboundary crimes.

    The Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Wale Adewole, In his remarks, appreciated the Nigerian Air Force for the visit and reiterated the Command’s readiness to deepen existing partnerships. He stressed that the Nigeria Customs Service remains dedicated to its core mandates of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and border security, adding that cooperation with sister agencies significantly enhances operational efficiency.

    As part of ongoing stakeholder engagement, the Acting Customs Area Controller also paid a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Oyo State Command, where he was received by the Deputy Comptroller of Immigration, who represented the Controller of Immigration, DC VC Oyeaka, on behalf of the State Controller. Discussions during the meeting centered on strengthening intelligence sharing, coordinated border management, and adopting proactive measures to improve national security architecture within the state.

    Furthermore, Deputy Comptroller Adewole paid homage to the revered Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Senator, Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, underscoring the Service’s recognition of traditional institutions as vital partners in maintaining peace, promoting lawful trade, and supporting community-based security initiatives. The visit highlighted the importance of grassroots collaboration in addressing security concerns and fostering an environment conducive to economic growth.

    The Acting Customs Area Controller reaffirmed that the Oyo/Osun Area Command will continue to build productive relationships with security agencies, traditional authorities, and other stakeholders to ensure the effective discharge of its statutory responsibilities.

  • Seme Area Command records Historic Revenue in 2025, Seizes Prohibited Substances

    Seme Area Command records Historic Revenue in 2025, Seizes Prohibited Substances

    The Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, has recorded unprecedented revenue milestones in 2025, achieving its highest-ever monthly and annual collections since inception. In December 2025, the Command generated a historic Three Billion, Six Hundred and Twenty-Eight Million, Four Hundred and Eighty-Five Thousand, Five Hundred and Ninety Naira (₦3,628,485,590.00); the highest monthly revenue on record. This record is attributed to the effective rollout of the One-Stop Shop (OSS) initiative by the Comptroller-General of Customs, which improves the Command’s coordination and trade facilitation for stakeholders.

    From January to December 2025, the Command generated a total of Fifteen Billion, Five Hundred and Ninety-Eight Million, Nine Hundred and Forty-Five Thousand, Seven Hundred and Ninety-Four Naira (₦15,598,945,794.00k) only, marking a remarkable 117% increase over the ₦7,166,576,397.49 recorded in 2024.

    On 11 November 2025, the Command hosted the launch of the Green Border Initiative by the National President of the Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, featuring an empowerment programme that distributed industrial sewing machines, grinding machines, gas burners with cylinders and start-up grants to members of the COWA Seme Chapter. On the same day, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR PhD launched a free medical outreach under the Customs Cares Initiative, delivering essential healthcare to over 1,000 beneficiaries, alongside a tree-planting exercise for environmental sustainability.

    In alignment with the Comptroller-General’s directive, Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, has successfully reduced checkpoints along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor to the Two (2) locations approved by the Federal Government, significantly easing legitimate trade, minimising delays and contributing to the Command’s outstanding revenue performance.

    The Command also maintained robust anti-smuggling operations, seizing in December 2025; 685 parcels of Cannabis sativa (Marijuana), 495 packs of Tramadol, and 2,000 packs of Super Power Sildenafil tablets (300mg) an excessively high-dosage sexual enhancement drug, through intelligence-led operations, enhanced patrols, risk profiling and inter-agency collaboration.

    Comptroller Adenuga warn smugglers that the Seme borders are no longer safe for illicit activities. With advanced intelligence, technology and unwavering vigilance, the Officers/men of the Command will intercept and prosecute offenders. He advised Smugglers to desist immediately or face the full weight of the law.

    Conversely, legitimate traders and compliant stakeholders are assured of a safe, conducive and efficiently facilitated Seme corridor, with seamless processes and reduced delays to support genuine cross-border commerce and economic growth.

    Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, expressed profound gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR Phd and the Management for their steadfast support and leadership. He also thanked the Command’s officers and men, stakeholders, sister agencies, military and paramilitary forces, the media, traditional and community leaders for their invaluable contributions, while pledging even greater achievements in 2026.

  • Nigeria Customs Service, Port Harcourt II Command Exceeds 2025 Revenue Target, Boosts Nigeria’s Economy

    Nigeria Customs Service, Port Harcourt II Command Exceeds 2025 Revenue Target, Boosts Nigeria’s Economy

    The Nigeria Customs Service, Port Harcourt II Command, achieved a remarkable milestone in its revenue collection. In 2025, a target of N700.01 billion was set based on the commendable performance of the command in surpassing its 2024 revenue target. A total of N731.2 billion was collected, exceeding its 2025 revenue target by 104.46%.

    This outstanding performance is attributed to the leadership and commitment of Comptroller Aliyu M Alkali, who effectively implemented the Comptroller-General of Customs’ policy thrust and the indigenous developed Unified Customs Management System (B’ODOGWU) platform for faster cargo clearance.

    He ensured strict adherence to standard operating procedures, maintained high discipline among officers, and fostered continuous engagement with stakeholders.

    While acknowledging the importance of providing quality leadership, Comptroller Alkali expressed his gratitude to the management of the Nigeria Customs Service, led by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, for providing an enabling environment that facilitated this achievement. He also appreciated the cooperation and synergy enjoyed from critical stakeholders who contributed to the Command’s success story.

    Comptroller Alkali praised the officers of the Command for their dedication, diligence, and professionalism. He stated that the officers’ uncompromised posture and patriotism shaped the incredible miles in the interception of 75 containers with a cumulative Duty Paid Value of N47.6 billion.

    30 out of the 75 containers intercepted were found to contain expired, illicit, and unregistered pharmaceutical products. Other cargoes were intercepted for contravening different sections of the Customs laws. He added that the seizures would serve as a deterrent to intending violators of the extant laws.

    The Area Controller encouraged importers and Customs licensed agents to make honest declarations as the Command remains committed to facilitating legitimate trade and enforcing customs regulations while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.

  • CGC Adeniyi Announces Mandatory Drug Test for Incoming Recruits, Serving Officers

    CGC Adeniyi Announces Mandatory Drug Test for Incoming Recruits, Serving Officers

    The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, on Friday, 21 November 2025, said the Nigeria Customs Service has concluded arrangements to subject all incoming officers and men to a mandatory drug test as part of the ongoing recruitment exercise.

    CGC Adeniyi, who disclosed this during the closing session of the CGC’s 2025 Conference in Abuja, said the measure was designed to ensure that no recruit enters the Service with substance-abuse tendencies that could compromise judgment, security responsibilities, or operational integrity.

    According to him, the new directive is aimed primarily at the fresh intake of recruits, but serving officers will also be captured as the Service moves towards establishing what he described as “a fully drug-free institution.”

    He said a mandatory drug test would be carried out for all officers and men across all Zones, Commands and at the Headquarters, noting that the Service would no longer tolerate a situation where personnel make sensitive decisions while under the influence of drugs.

    CGC Adeniyi explained that the decision was informed by experiences where erratic behaviour or poor decision-making in some Commands was later linked to substance misuse.

    He said, “There will be no compromise. We are going to ensure that every new officer is tested so that we do not begin to spend Service resources rehabilitating personnel.”

    He warned that the era of overlooking early signs of substance abuse in the ranks was over, stressing that officers assigned to revenue collection, enforcement and border security must possess sound judgment at all times.

    He also reminded officers to prioritise their personal health and undergo regular medical checks, stating that physical and mental fitness remain essential to effective service delivery.

  • Nigeria urged to champion regional transit guarantee scheme in Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)

    Nigeria urged to champion regional transit guarantee scheme in Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)

    …Under the Afreximbank African Collaborative Transit Guarantee Scheme, a single transit bond is issued to secure customs duties, significantly reducing bureaucratic hurdles and facilitating smoother cross-border trade

    African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has urged Nigeria to champion the implementation of an effective regional transit guarantee scheme under the new transit regulation endorsed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

    Delivering a keynote address at the inaugural session of the Customs Partnership for African Cooperation in Trade (Customs PACT) held in Abuja, Nigeria, from 17 to 19 November, Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, Afreximbank, highlighted the challenges imposed by the current interstate road transit regime in the region. Key among them is the lack of a regional transit guarantee, leading to overdependence on physical escort of goods in transit by customs which drives up costs and results in inefficiencies.

    Mrs. Awani said that Afreximbank was keen on working with Nigeria, ECOWAS and the ECOWAS Bank of Investment and Development to support the region to implement an effective regional transit guarantee system, which would complement the efforts of national insurers and chambers of commerce, and empower them to increase their capacity.

    She said the Bank is currently implementing a US$1-billion transit guarantee scheme to facilitate the movement of goods across Africa by addressing persistent transit challenges and responding to the concerns of customs authorities about the risk of goods entering markets illegally, and about potential loss of customs duties and taxes.

    Mrs. Awani explained that, under the Afreximbank African Collaborative Transit Guarantee Scheme, a single transit bond is issued to secure customs duties, significantly reducing bureaucratic hurdles and facilitating smoother cross-border trade, with the elimination of the need for multiple transit bonds enhancing trade efficiency and substantially lowering business costs.

    She added that the scheme was already being implemented in the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa and the East African Community (COMESA) under a US$300-million facility with ZEP RE (PTA Reinsurance Company), a reinsurer based in Nairobi, Kenya. Mrs Awani highlighted that the scheme would save at least US$300 million annually in transit costs when fully implemented at a continental level.

    She said that Afreximbank is open to working with Nigeria and other African countries to establish one-stop-border-posts and related infrastructure, building on its experience at the Beitbridge border post between South Africa and Zimbabwe. The modernisation of that border post, implemented with support of Afreximbank and other partners, resulted in clearance time at the post dropping from 3-5 days to a maximum of 3 – 5 hours.

    Afreximbank, Mrs. Awani told delegates present, supported the event out of the realisation that unresolved soft infrastructure issues, particularly in customs and trade facilitation, would impede free movement of goods under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) if not addressed. According to Africa Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), she explained, 75 per cent of delays in the movement of goods is due to trade facilitation issues with just 25 per cent attributed to infrastructure gaps.

    She also highlighted the challenge posed by lack of harmonised systems and their interoperability and by national customs systems that do not communicate with each other.

    H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of Nigeria, sent a message of endorsement to the Customs PACT, saying that it aligned perfectly with the Nigerian government’s commitment to fostering regional integration, enhancing trade facilitation and positioning Nigeria and Africa as competitive players in the global economy.

    The Customs PACT roundtable was organized to revolutionise customs and business cooperation, promote intra-African trade and position Africa as a formidable force in global trade. It was organised by the Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with Afreximbank, the AfCFTA Secretariat and supported by the World Customs Organization.

  • KLT Command Strengthens Collaboration with Oil and Gas Stakeholders to Enhance Compliance and Operational Efficiency

    KLT Command Strengthens Collaboration with Oil and Gas Stakeholders to Enhance Compliance and Operational Efficiency

    The Nigeria Customs Service, Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Command, on Tuesday, 18th November 2025, convened a strategic stakeholders’ engagement with operators in the oil and gas sector. The session focused on reinforcing compliance with regulatory requirements and improving efficiency in vessel handling and jetty operations within the Command’s jurisdiction.

    In her opening remarks, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller E. J. Edelduok, described the oil and gas sector as a critical pillar of national revenue generation and energy stability. She underscored the need for transparent documentation, precise product accountability, and prompt Customs procedures to ensure the seamless discharge, storage, and evacuation of petroleum products. Comptroller Edelduok encouraged stakeholders to present operational challenges openly and reiterated the Command’s commitment to refining its processes to promote ease of doing business while safeguarding government revenue.

    The Officer-in-Charge of Boarding, Superintendent of Customs Emmanuel Okoka, emphasized that all foreign vessels entering Nigeria for the first time are required to berth at a government jetty for mandatory Customs clearance before proceeding to private jetties. He noted that this procedure is essential to enforcing compliance checks, strengthening national security, and protecting revenue.

    Deliberations during the engagement covered vessel movement coordination, jetty discharge timelines, and product transfer to storage facilities. Stakeholders commended the Command for its collaborative approach and proposed the issuance of a formal circular to streamline berthing protocols.

    The CAC concluded by reaffirming her commitment to transparency, enhanced accountability, and sustained stakeholder cooperation to ensure seamless petroleum product operations across the KLT corridor.

  • A Fraudster Masked in Customs Uniform: Ibikunle Adewale Fafure aka Indomie

    A Fraudster Masked in Customs Uniform: Ibikunle Adewale Fafure aka Indomie

    The evil intent of every man has a toga cover, and that is what Ibikunle Adewale Fafure, aka Indomie, has done with the prestigious uniform of the Nigeria Customs Service. He is masked in the uniform to perpetrate a continuous series of fraudulent business with his neighbours in the Laaga community, off Ijede Road, Ikorodu, Lagos.

    He has mastered the act that he is giving the Nigerian Customs Service a bad name in the community, and he has become a topical issue for many residents who are now coming together to fight for their hard-earned money. Mr. Fafure, the son of a retired military personnel from Ekiti State but resident in Benue State.

    Mr Fafure is not proud of bequeathing his own father’s name to his children, as such his four girls, namely Adeola, Oyinkansola, Jomiloju, and Korede, bear Ibikunle as their surname, while his wife, Roselyn Bola Fafure, nee Eyiolorunshe.

    In September 2025, officers of the Nigeria Police Force invited him to the Anti-Fraud unit of Area “H” Command, Ogudu in Lagos, because his ill deeds and disrespect for older people are evident.

    According to the elderly woman, she and her husband believed that as a Customs officer, he would be able to get them a tokunbo Toyota Corolla in 2023. They gave him a total of Two Million, Two Hundred Thousand naira only (2,200,000). Mr Fafure started bringing other brands of Nigerian-used cars, and when asked to refund their money, he gave them a million naira in November 2024, and to date, he has yet to balance them a year later. Unfortunately, with the devaluation of the naira, it is almost impossible for this couple to afford a car.

    Aside from this, there is another resident of the same community who collected Twelve Million naira (12,000,000) for a 2013 Toyota Highlander. Since July 1, he has yet to refund the money, and he keeps making comments like he cannot run away, as his family is resident in the same vicinity. Efforts at retrieving the money have failed. Despite reporting him to the Customs Police and pleading on his behalf, he is still nonchalant about it. Currently, he is in training in Abuja, and he views it as a means to escape his past misdeeds in Lagos.

    Not stopping there, Fafure, a member of Winner Chapel, Ikorodu, whose house is also a house fellowship centre, also has other accounts of fraud, such as the collection of Ten Million naira only (10,000,000) from someone of Delta State origin within Ikorodu, and he has not paid back as well. Similarly, he collected money to help buy an empty container for someone, but till today, he has yet to refund the money as well. The one that baffles the most is the issue he had with a PoS operator, where he collected money and refused to transfer or give his ATM card for withdrawal, and he was being embarrassed by the operator.

    These are just a few of the growing number of his atrocities in the neighbourhood and this is the time for him to pay up all the “sweats” of old and young people that he is living large. One can imagine the number of people that he has defrauded with the uniform from all across Nigeria, and he dares to display cars in his status, driving unregistered cars into the neighbourhood and claiming that they are Custom-auctioned cars, whereas he buys Nigerian-used cars to swindle people.

    Neighbours have been silenced for a long time because he carries the arm of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (FRN) and he brandishes it around. Fafure, is one of those officers soiling the great effort of the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, CG Adewale Adeniyi. He is nothing but a wolf in sheep’s clothing, and everyone is crying for the refund of their hard-earned money!

  • Port Harcourt II Area Command Sets a Historic Record with N76.07 Billion Revenue Collection in October 2025

    Port Harcourt II Area Command Sets a Historic Record with N76.07 Billion Revenue Collection in October 2025

    The Nigeria Customs Service Port Harcourt II Area Command has achieved a landmark milestone with a record-breaking revenue collection of N76, 075, 447, 369. 83 in October 2025. This achievement marks the highest monthly revenue in the Command’s history, highlighting the impact of decisive leadership and unified collaboration within the Command.

    This record-breaking performance is attributed to the deliberate and conscious stakeholder engagement spearheaded by Comptroller Aliyu M Alkali. This was achieved through the ongoing dialogue with stakeholders and consistent engagement with unit heads, emphasizing the importance of facilitating legitimate trade, compliance and adding value to the Command’s operations. These initiatives have significantly contributed to the improved revenue performance.

    This exceptional performance underscores Comptroller Alkali’s unwavering commitment to national economic growth through effective revenue generation, enforcement of compliance with international trade regulations and facilitating legitimate trade.

    Furthermore, the Customs Area Controller strategically deployed officers to their current beats based on operational needs, ensuring optimal resource allocation and efficiency across the Command. This proactive measure has enhanced the Command’s capacity to meet and exceed its monthly revenue targets.

    Comptroller Alkali, expressed his gratitude to all the port’s stakeholders, importers and licenced agents and all the officers and men of the Command for their patriotism, synergy, and commitment to working together towards this historic achievement. He encouraged all stakeholders to sustain this momentum and strive for even greater accomplishments in the coming months.

    He stated, “This milestone is a testament to what we can achieve through effective teamwork and dedication to national development. We shall continue to strengthen our system to sustain this momentum.’’

  • Tincan Island Command concludes week-long In-House Training to Boost Officers’ Capacity and Professionalism

    Tincan Island Command concludes week-long In-House Training to Boost Officers’ Capacity and Professionalism

    The Tincan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has successfully concluded a week-long in-house training programme designed to enhance the capacity, professionalism, and operational efficiency of its senior officers.

    The comprehensive training, which ran from Monday, October 13 to Friday, October 17, 2025, was held within the Command premises and brought together officers from various units and departments to strengthen core competencies essential for effective service delivery.

    Declaring the training open, the Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, emphasized the importance of continuous learning and capacity development within the Service.

    “This training is not just a routine exercise but an investment in the growth of our personnel,” he stated. “I urge all officers to apply the knowledge gained to their daily responsibilities and strive for excellence in service delivery.”

    Comptroller Onyeka further revealed that while the just-concluded programme focused on senior officers, plans are underway to organize a similar training session for junior officers to ensure that all cadres benefit from the Command’s renewed focus on professional development.

    The resource persons for the programme were drawn from within the Command, showcasing the depth of expertise available internally. Topics covered during the sessions included Physical Examination, Reputation Management, Risk Management and Documentary Checks, Evidence Exploitation, Customs Procedure Codes, Customs Classification, VIN Valuation, Customs Valuation, Code of Conduct, and Customs Administration, among others.

    In his closing remarks, Comptroller Onyeka reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to building a highly skilled, knowledgeable, and proactive workforce capable of meeting the dynamic challenges of modern customs operations.

    Participants expressed appreciation for the quality and relevance of the sessions, noting that the training provided valuable insights and practical tools to improve their performance.

    One of the participants, Assistant Controller Rose Bonat of the Transire Unit, described the programme as a “laudable and forward-thinking initiative.”

    “This training has broadened my understanding and equipped me with tools that are directly applicable to my role. I commend the leadership of the Command for investing in the professional growth of officers,” she said.

    The Command reiterated that initiatives such as this reflect its ongoing commitment to operational excellence, human capital development, and improved service delivery in line with the objectives of the Nigeria Customs Service.

  • Customs Holds Retreat for Newly Promoted Comptrollers

    Customs Holds Retreat for Newly Promoted Comptrollers

    …Tasks Officers on Leadership, Innovation

    The Nigeria Customs Service has organised a week-long leadership retreat for its newly promoted Comptrollers with a focus on strengthening leadership capacity, innovation, and institutional integrity across commands and formations.

    The retreat, held at the Sen. Ahmed Makarfi Auditorium of the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, Gwagwalada, was declared open on Tuesday, 7 October 2025, by the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), DCG Sulaiman Chiroma, and officially closed on Friday, 11 October 2025, by the Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Human Resource Development, DCG Greg Itotoh.

    Declaring the event open, DCG Chiroma described the retreat as part of the Comptroller-General of Customs’ ongoing reforms to prepare newly promoted officers for higher responsibilities in line with global Customs standards.

    He charged the officers to be deliberate in leadership and uphold the values of discipline, accountability, and innovation, stressing that their performance would define the image of the Service in the public space.

    DCG Chiroma said, “This retreat provides an opportunity to realign with the CGC’s three-point agenda: collaboration, consolidation, and innovation, to ensure that every officer contributes meaningfully to the modernisation drive of the Service.”

    He noted that Comptrollers must demonstrate professionalism and teamwork in translating the vision of the Comptroller-General, Adewale Adeniyi, into measurable achievements that will impact trade facilitation and border security.

    In his closing remarks, DCG Itotoh commended the participants for their commitment throughout the retreat, describing their promotion as both a reward for hard work and a call to greater responsibility.

    He said the new rank places them in the frontlines of Customs leadership where integrity, professionalism, and accountability must guide every action.

    He said, “The Nigeria Customs Service expects much from you. You are now managers of men and resources, and you must embody the discipline, excellence, and transparency that define the vision of the Comptroller-General. Every decision you take in your command will reflect not just on you, but on the Service as a whole.”

    DCG Itotoh further reminded the participants that promotion comes with higher expectations, urging them to leverage the training to improve efficiency and mentor their subordinates.

    He added that their loyalty to the institution should translate into impactful service delivery, enhanced stakeholder trust, and sustained revenue performance.

    The National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, also delivered a lecture during the retreat titled “Stakeholder Management, Media Community, and Employee Relationship.”

    Maiwada explained to the Comptrollers, the importance of effective communication in achieving organisational goals, advising them to shun listening to gossip and inculcate the habit of befriending all productive staff and stakeholders.

    Speaking on public relations, AC Maiwada said, “PR is not just about information dissemination; it is about relationship building, maintaining credibility, and ensuring that every Customs officer becomes an ambassador of the Service’s integrity.”

    He further emphasised that transparent communication and positive engagement with the business community remain essential to the success of the Comptroller-General’s reforms.

    On their parts, Comptrollers Usman Yahaya, Murtala Mu’azu, and Josephine Egwakide, who spoke to newsmen shortly after the closing ceremony, expressed profound gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs and his management team for their support and trust.

    They pledged to discharge their duties effectively, protect the image of the Service, and ensure that the CGC’s vision of institutional excellence and stakeholder confidence is fully realised.