By Godwin Oritse

The appointment of Mr. Adewale Adeniyi as the 31st Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has ushered in transformative reforms, positioning the agency for greater efficiency and improved service delivery.

Under his leadership, the agency has embarked on innovative initiatives that have not only facilitated trade but also significantly boosted its revenue profile. These efforts have broken new ground, further enhancing the relevance of a service that has been operational for over a century.

The Nigeria Customs Service has become a pivotal driver of economic growth and a key player in international trade facilitation and cross-border security. Its operations have a profound impact on the nation’s economic development.

Legislative Reforms: A New Era for Customs

One of the first milestones achieved under Adeniyi’s leadership was overhauling the outdated legal framework guiding the NCS. Recognizing the inadequacy of operating under a 65-year-old legal regime, the agency worked towards modernizing its governance.

This culminated in the Nigeria Customs Act 2023, signed into law on April 20, 2023. The Act repeals the Customs and Excise Management Act and other outdated legislations, paving the way for a modernized customs administration. The new law aims to streamline operations, enhance trade facilitation, and align the agency’s practices with international standards.

The Act establishes the Nigeria Customs Service as an autonomous legal entity under the supervision of the Minister of Finance and governed by a Board. It integrates contemporary best practices, facilitating international trade while providing a robust legal framework for customs administration.

Strategic Reforms: Tools for Efficiency

Time Release Study (TRS)

One of the landmark initiatives introduced under Adeniyi’s leadership is the Time Release Study (TRS), a strategic tool developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO). TRS measures the time taken for the clearance and release of goods, identifying bottlenecks in the trade flow process. By addressing these inefficiencies, the NCS has enhanced the speed and effectiveness of its operations, improving service delivery for traders.

Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Program

The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program is another major reform aligned with WCO standards. The AEO initiative recognizes compliant entities involved in the international movement of goods, such as manufacturers, importers, exporters, customs brokers, and logistics operators. By facilitating seamless trade for certified operators, the program has strengthened the supply chain and improved security.

The Customs Trade Modernization Project (TMP)

The NCS’s flagship reform is the Customs Trade Modernization Project (TMP), launched in 2022. This ambitious initiative aims to generate $250 billion in revenue for the federal government upon full implementation. Inaugurated in June 2023, TMP not only promises significant revenue growth but also substantial job creation, as the current workforce may require expansion to meet future demands.

Enhancing Stakeholder Engagement

Under CGC Adeniyi, the NCS has prioritized strategic communication and stakeholder engagement. The seamless transition from the repealed Customs and Excise Act of 2004 to the Nigeria Customs Service Act of 2023 exemplifies the agency’s commitment to inclusive reform.

In conclusion, the reforms introduced under CGC Adewale Adeniyi have repositioned the Nigeria Customs Service as a forward-thinking institution. By modernizing its legal framework, implementing strategic tools, and launching transformative projects, the NCS is well-equipped to drive economic growth, facilitate trade, and ensure national security in a dynamic global environment.

All these reforms have culminated in the impressive revenue of over N5tillion collected for the year 2024 with a target of over N6trillion for 2025.