Category: News

  • NCS Hosts WCO, JICA Workshop on African Rules of Origin

    NCS Hosts WCO, JICA Workshop on African Rules of Origin


    The World Customs Organisation (WCO), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), organised a five-day workshop starting from Thursday, 28 November 2024, aimed at building the capacity of Customs operatives across African countries in the area of rules of origin.

    Speaking to journalists shortly after declaring the workshop open, the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Tariff and Trade, DCG Caroline Niagwan, noted that the two international organisations had formed an alliance to provide technical assistance. This includes training initiatives to support Customs officers across the African region.

    DCG Niagwan stated: “The European Union and the World Customs Organisation signed a partnership agreement for a comprehensive programme that would foster the full implementation and application of the rules of origin in Africa.

    “This programme, known as the EU-WCO Rules of Origin for Africa Programme, enhances the capacity of Africa and supports the implementation and application of rules of origin to boost intra-African trade. That is the whole rationale.”

    Faith Mathenge, a Rules of Origin expert and facilitator for the EU-WCO Rules of Origin for Africa Programme, reiterated that the programme was designed to build capacity for African countries in rules of origin, which she described as crucial for facilitating trade.

    She affirmed the WCO’s commitment to providing continuous support to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) through training initiatives aimed at enhancing the efficiency of its officers.

    Mathenge revealed that nearly 26 countries sent representatives to participate in the workshop and encouraged attendees to pay close attention to the modern technicalities associated with rules of origin.

    She commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his unwavering support for capacity building. “I must commend the CGC for prioritising capacity building, which is the bedrock that will enable his officers to implement procedures that facilitate trade and enhance compliance,” she said.

    The workshop underscored the importance of collaboration in fostering intra-African trade and strengthening the role of Customs officers in implementing rules of origin effectively.

  • WESTERN MARINE COMMAND: Comptroller Bamisaiye Transfers Seized Cannabis, Codeine Worth ₦182.2 Million to NDLEA, NAFDAC

    WESTERN MARINE COMMAND: Comptroller Bamisaiye Transfers Seized Cannabis, Codeine Worth ₦182.2 Million to NDLEA, NAFDAC


    The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has handed over contraband valued at ₦182,196,000 to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The items include 1,658 loaves of Cannabis Sativa, weighing 788 kilograms, and 386 bottles of codeine syrup, seized during anti-smuggling operations in November 2024.

    During a press briefing, Comptroller PK Bamisaiye, the Customs Area Controller of the Western Marine Command, described the seizures as part of the Command’s intensified efforts to combat smuggling along Nigeria’s waterways. The Cannabis Sativa was intercepted during operations at Ijegun Waterside, Bar Beach, and Ekare Beach Front, which also led to the arrest of three suspects. These actions were carried out in line with Section 233 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.

    In addition to the drugs, the Command also confiscated 295 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, seven bags of 50kg refined granulated sugar, and 900 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at locations including the “Point of No Return” in Badagry and Panko Ere waterfronts. The PMS was disposed of in accordance with established regulations.

    Comptroller Bamisaiye emphasized that these operations align with the directives of the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) to safeguard the economy and public health. He highlighted the devastating effects of smuggling, particularly the trafficking of hard drugs, on the nation’s wellbeing. “Smuggling harms our economy and threatens public health. The Western Marine Command remains committed to eliminating all forms of economic sabotage along our waterways,” he declared.

    Marine Commander Udoh Morrison of the NDLEA commended the Customs Service for its proactive stance in combating drug smuggling, noting the longstanding cooperation between the two agencies. Morrison called for enhanced collaboration, citing the need for resource sharing and operational support.

    “Customs has been at the forefront of the drug war even before the establishment of NDLEA. Their capacity, including flying boats and strategic outposts, is invaluable to our operations,” Morrison remarked. He also stressed the importance of public awareness about modern drugs like tramadol, which are odorless but highly dangerous, urging parents to stay vigilant.

    Pharm. Shaba Muhammed, Director of Investigation and Enforcement at NAFDAC, echoed these sentiments. Represented by Principal Regulatory Officer Isah Salihu, Muhammed praised the Customs Service for its decisive actions, describing them as vital to securing Nigeria’s waterways and upholding economic stability.

    Both NDLEA and NAFDAC acknowledged the critical need for inter-agency synergy in tackling drug trafficking and other illicit activities. The handover of the seized items not only demonstrates the effectiveness of ongoing partnerships but also underscores the shared resolve to protect the nation’s economy and public health.

    With these coordinated efforts, the fight against smuggling and drug abuse in Nigeria’s waterways continues to gain momentum, promising a safer and more secure future for all Nigerians.

  • NCS Officers Involved In Viral Video Maltreatment Handed Over For Investigation

    NCS Officers Involved In Viral Video Maltreatment Handed Over For Investigation

    The Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has handed over two officers implicated in the maltreatment of individuals in a viral video to the Customs Police Unit for further investigation. This development was disclosed during a media briefing held at the Seme-Krake Border Command on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, by Comptroller Kayode Kolade, represented by Deputy Comptroller Istifanus Musa.

    The Command had on Monday, December 2, 2024, announced the launch of an investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings identified two officers, Superintendent of Customs TA Inemugha and Assistant Superintendent of Customs II GO Aboribo, as the culprits. Both have been arrested and are now set to face further scrutiny at the NCS Headquarters.

    The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, condemned the actions of the officers, labeling their behavior as unethical and unprofessional. He reiterated the Service’s commitment to upholding integrity and professionalism among its ranks.

    “The behavior of these officers does not reflect the professional standards of the Service, especially at a time when we are striving to hold our officers to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism,” he stated.

    The NCS has appealed to the complainants involved in the case to cooperate with the investigation to ensure justice is served. The agency emphasized its dedication to transparency and accountability in its operations, assuring the public that misconduct within its ranks will not be tolerated.

    The Comptroller General directed the initiation of a full-scale investigation and promised decisive disciplinary action against the officers. The NCS remains committed to safeguarding public trust and ensuring that its personnel operate within the bounds of ethical conduct.

    The Seme Area Command reaffirmed its commitment to the interests of the Nigerian public, pledging to maintain transparency and professionalism in carrying out its mandates.

  • Customs Oyo/Osun Command Mourns Officer As Family of Six Die In Ede House Fire

    Customs Oyo/Osun Command Mourns Officer As Family of Six Die In Ede House Fire

    The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the tragic demise of Superintendent of Customs (SC) Kabiru Tijani, his wife, and their four children in a devastating fire incident. The inferno occurred in the early hours of Monday, December 2, 2024, at their residence in Ede, Osun State.

    SC Kabiru Tijani, who was the Officer in Charge of Operations at the Command, was known for his dedication to duty and outstanding contributions to the success of anti-smuggling operations. His wife was also an active and well-regarded member of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Oyo/Osun Chapter, contributing significantly to the welfare of the Customs community.

    In a press release signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Customs Kayode Wey, the Command expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss, describing it as an irreparable loss to the Customs Service and the nation.

    The Command has urged the public to disregard speculative reports surrounding the fire incident, emphasizing that its priority is to provide support to the bereaved family and the lone child survivor. Efforts are also underway to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.

    The Customs Area Controller, Dr. Ben Oramalugo, on behalf of the officers and men of the Oyo/Osun Area Command, extended heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. He also expressed gratitude for the public’s prayers and support during this difficult time.

    The late SC Kabiru Tijani and his family have been laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites.

    The Command prays for the Almighty to grant the deceased Al-Janatul Firdaus and provide strength to the bereaved family to endure this immense loss.

  • CISLAC Urges National Assembly to Prioritise Equity, Transparency in Nigeria Tax Bill 2024

    CISLAC Urges National Assembly to Prioritise Equity, Transparency in Nigeria Tax Bill 2024

    The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has been at the forefront of advocating for fiscal policy reforms that address Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges while promoting transparency and inclusiveness.

    In a statement signed by the Executive Director of CISLAC, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, he noted that the Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024, “a landmark legislative initiative, holds the potential to transform the country’s fiscal framework by consolidating legal provisions, enhancing tax administration, and promoting economic transparency.”

    The statement reads: “However, CISLAC strongly urges the National Assembly and the Executive to critically examine and address key gaps in the bill to ensure that its implementation fosters inclusivity, economic equity, and sustainable governance.”

    CISLAC has identified several critical areas of concern in the bill that require immediate attention. According to Rafsanjani, “The proposed derivation model for VAT revenue distribution risks deepening economic disparities among states. Addressing such systemic inequities requires a constitutional review. To mitigate these challenges, CISLAC advocates for the establishment of an Equalization Fund to support less-developed states in building their human capital and institutional capacity until 2030. Additionally, VAT must be collected at the point of sale rather than remitted to corporate headquarters to enhance transparency and prevent regional disparities in revenue allocation.”

    He added: “The proposed increase in VAT rates, which are set to double by 2030, raises significant concerns about its impact on inflation and poverty. CISLAC recommends maintaining the current VAT rate of 7.5% until the economy stabilizes, coupled with measures to shield vulnerable populations from price shocks. It is also imperative that the list of VAT exemptions be expanded to include essential items such as cooking energy (LPG and kerosene) and electricity for consumer use, to mitigate the regressive effects of taxation on low-income households.”

    “To ensure tax incentives are administered equitably, CISLAC emphasizes the need for transparency in their implementation,” the statement continued. “Strengthening the enabling laws of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) is critical to preventing misuse and ensuring inclusivity. Furthermore, the bill’s provisions for an effective tax rate on multinationals and high-turnover companies must be backed by clear and enforceable guidelines. Strengthening compliance mechanisms will ensure that large corporations and multinational enterprises contribute their fair share to national revenue.”

    “Revenue from the Development Levy must be transparently utilized to enhance education and institutional capacity in underserved regions, supporting long-term human capital development,” Rafsanjani stressed. “CISLAC underscores that fiscal policies should aim to bridge socio-economic divides while fostering trust between the government and citizens. Addressing the identified shortcomings in the Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024, is essential to prevent further entrenchment of existing inequalities.”

    He further stated: “CISLAC calls on the National Assembly to engage with stakeholders, including civil society organizations, to ensure that the bill reflects the aspirations and needs of all Nigerians. The Presidential Committee must provide detailed data on the compliance rates of the current VAT regime and address the challenges hindering effective implementation. State governors should prioritize the creation of sustainable industries to generate employment and revenue for economic revival, while public-private partnerships should be encouraged to drive economic development across all states.”

    “The Federal Government and state governors must address existing infrastructure gaps, improve citizens’ access to education and healthcare, and ensure that the benefits of taxes are felt by all,” CISLAC concluded. “CISLAC also urges the government to digitize and publish all tax collection processes to curb corruption and enhance transparency. Adequate public consultations with stakeholders and citizens must be observed throughout the legislative process.”

    The Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024, represents a unique opportunity to reposition the nation’s fiscal framework for greater equity and efficiency. CISLAC remains committed to collaborating with the National Assembly and other stakeholders to ensure the bill delivers on its transformative potential. Signed by Auwal Musa Rafsanjani Executive Director Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) & Head of Transparency International-Nigeria

  • Investigation Into Alleged Maltreatment Of Some Individuals By Customs Officers In A Viral Video

    Investigation Into Alleged Maltreatment Of Some Individuals By Customs Officers In A Viral Video

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Seme Area Command has commenced an investigation into an incident in a viral video where some officers attached to the command were seen maltreating some public members.

    According to the release Hussaini Abdullahi pjsc, Superintendent of Customs, Public Relations Officer
    For Customs Area Controller Seme Area Command, the Command wishes to express its deepest empathy for the affected public members and wishes to equally condemn in strong terms such unethical conduct. It is essential to state that the action of these officers contradicts the value and operational standard of the Service.

    The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Kayode Kolade, has directed that those officers be withdrawn and be interrogated to facilitate decisive disciplinary measures against whoever is found culpable. He further assured the general public that the outcome of the investigative panel would be made public when concluded.

    While calling on the stakeholders and public plying the Lagos-Abidjan Corridor to go about their lawful activities, the CAC assured that the Command remains committed to creating a safe and conducive atmosphere for Legitimate trade to thrive.

  • IMION Hosts Workshop on Innovative Strategies to Advance Nigeria’s Blue Economy

    IMION Hosts Workshop on Innovative Strategies to Advance Nigeria’s Blue Economy

    The International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) has commenced a five-day workshop focused on “Innovative Strategies for Growing the Blue Economy,” aimed at fostering sustainable development in Nigeria’s maritime sector. The event, held at the IMION Auditorium, NNS Quorra, Harbour Road, Apapa, brings together policymakers, industry leaders, scholars, and maritime experts to chart a course for the nation’s blue economy potential.

    Rear Admiral (rtd.) Thaddeus Udofia, Director General of IMION, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the pivotal role of the maritime sector in Nigeria’s economic growth. He emphasized the institute’s mission of advancing governance, building capacity, and facilitating public-private collaboration to unlock the vast opportunities within the blue economy while preserving the ecosystem for future generations.

    “Nigeria’s 853-kilometer coastline and strategic location in the Gulf of Guinea present enormous potential for economic development. IMION was established to complement government efforts by addressing critical maritime issues such as governance, security, hydrography, climate change, and the blue economy,” Udofia stated.

    The workshop aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustainable development, as well as the mandate of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. Participants will engage in in-depth discussions on topics such as sustainable fisheries, renewable energy, maritime transportation, and coastal tourism.

    Udofia emphasized the importance of interagency collaboration and stakeholder engagement, noting that the success of the blue economy requires coordinated efforts from both public and private sectors.
    “This workshop serves as a strategic platform for stakeholders to meet, strategize, and exchange innovative ideas to improve the blue economy for the prosperity of Nigeria and humanity,” he said.

    The workshop also seeks to address pressing challenges in the maritime environment, including security threats and capacity deficits. IMION plays a crucial role in training professionals in hydrography and other specialized areas to ensure that Nigeria meets the growing demand for skilled maritime experts.

    “We are focused on building the capacity of personnel to manage the blue economy effectively. By the end of this training, participants will have enhanced skills and knowledge to contribute to the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s maritime sector,” Udofia added.

    Udofia urged maritime industry stakeholders to take advantage of the resources and training provided by IMION.
    “The expertise we seek abroad is now available within our borders. I encourage stakeholders to leverage this institute to develop their personnel, ensuring productive results for the blue economy, both nationally and globally,” he said.

    Inaugurated on June 1, 2024, IMION is a specialized maritime institution dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s blue economy. Its focus on research, policy advocacy, and capacity building positions it as a strategic partner in addressing maritime challenges and fostering economic prosperity.

    The workshop is expected to culminate with actionable strategies and recommendations to enhance Nigeria’s role in the global maritime sector, ensuring sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

  • CG Adeniyi Honours Outstanding Customs Officers at 2024 CGC Excellence Awards Night

    CG Adeniyi Honours Outstanding Customs Officers at 2024 CGC Excellence Awards Night


    In an efforts to promote professionalism and recognise exceptional service, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, on Friday, 29 November 2024, hosted the CGC Excellence Awards Night in Abuja. The annual event celebrated Customs officers who excelled in their duties, ranging from revenue generation and trade facilitation to anti-smuggling operations.

    The ceremony, held in Abuja, brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the National Assembly, and law enforcement agencies. Among the dignitaries were the Representative of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy who doubles as the Chairman Nigeria Customs Service Board, Mr Olawale Edun; Senator Isah Jibril, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Customs; Hon Leke Abejide, Chairman House Committee on Customs and Excise; and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, who commended the NCS critical role in enhancing national security, trade facilitation and revenue generation.

    Speaking at the event, CGC Adeniyi highlighted the significance of celebrating excellence within the Service, stating: “This strategic shift springs from our belief that positive reinforcement nurtures a more dynamic, motivated, and high-performing workforce.” He added that the awards represent a new direction for the Service, moving away from more emphasis on punitive measures to rewarding exceptional contributions.

    The CGC acknowledged the challenges faced in 2024, including a 15% revenue deficit carried over from 2023, but emphasised the Service’s determination to overcome setbacks and achieve its goals. He called on officers to remain united and uphold the values of integrity, professionalism, and humanity in serving the nation.

    Ali Muhammad, Director of Home Finance at the Ministry of Finance who represented the Honourable Minister, praised CGC Adeniyi’s leadership, noting that recognising excellence motivates officers and enhances productivity. Similarly, IGP Egbetokun lauded the collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and the NCS, describing it as a cornerstone of national security efforts.

    Among the recipients of the awards was Assistant Superintendent of Customs, Folusho Adeogun, Liaison Officer, Nigeria Customs Broadcasting Network (NCBN). The awards ceremony reinforced the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and professionalism, inspiring officers to continue serving the nation with dedication and pride.

  • CGC Awards Night: Comptroller Dera Nnadi goes with Two Awards of Excellence

    CGC Awards Night: Comptroller Dera Nnadi goes with Two Awards of Excellence

    The Tincan island Port Command of Nigeria Customs Service and Area Comptroller Dera Nnadi, mni has been honoured with an Award and a Certificate of Excellence at the CGC Award Night Ceremony held on Friday November 29, 2024 in Abuja.

    Comptroller Dera Nnadi, mni was celebrated by colleagues and stakeholders at the Award ceremony, he won an Award for Distinctive performance and another Award of Excellence for work place Transformation given his leadership and commitment to deliver on his mandates at the Tincan island port.

    The awards, were presented to him by the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, recognised the command for its various achievements, transformation, and innovative solutions to ensure trade facilitation.

    The awards read ” *Winner CGC’s Special Award For Work Place Transformation as well as ‘In Recognition of your Distinctive Performance and Commitment to the Ideas and Vision of the Nigeria Customs Service.”*

    Under the leadership of Comptroller Dera Nnadi, mni the command generated N 1.2tr as revenue into government coffers as of November 2024 and successfully remodelled the Tincan Island Port command administrative building built over 40 years ago.

    The Area Controller dedicated the achievements recorded to Officers and men of the command.
    He described the achievements as a result of teamwork, commitment, focus, and dedication of all the officers of the command.

    The Area Controller expressed appreciation to the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, for the support given to the command and honour bestowed on him. He also called for continuous support from all stakeholders

    He further described the award as a call for increased commitment and a challenge to sustain and improve on the pace of work at the command .

    Comptroller Dera, also urged Business men and women at the Tincan island port to take advantage of the Trade modernisation project initiatives of the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniy MFR, to ensure the use of technology at the port, Trade facilitation and paperless port procedures.

    The CAC admonished officers of the command to see the awards as a motivation and challenge to work harder.

  • COMPTROLLER OLOMU: Apapa Customs Command Win Three Awards for Excellence, Revenue, Controller of The Year

    COMPTROLLER OLOMU: Apapa Customs Command Win Three Awards for Excellence, Revenue, Controller of The Year

    The Apapa Port Command of Nigeria Customs Service and it’s Area Controller has been honoured with three awards at Comptroller General of Customs Award for Revenue Collection and an Award of Excellence for its outstanding feats at the CGC Award Night held on Friday November 29, 2024 in Abuja.

    Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, the Customs Area Controller who was celebrated by colleagues,friends and stakeholders stood out as the star of the night. He emerged “Best Controller of the Year” for his exceptional leadership and improving on the command’s capacity to deliver on its mandates at Nigeria’s premier port of Apapa

    According to the Customs Public Relations Officer, Apapa Command, CSC Abubakar Usman “The three awards which were presented to the command on Friday, November 29, 2024 at a ceremony hosted by the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR recognised the command for it’s various groundbreaking achievements in the areas of revenue collection, anti smuggling and trade facilitation.

    For the first time in the history of the command, it generated N2tr as revenue into government coffers as at November 20, 2024. Under the leadership of Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, the command raised the bar of preventing revenue leakages and achieving maximum collection, even in the face of low trade volume

    With hands on daily, weekly, monthly and quarterly evaluation of its activities, the command has been attune to getting all officers to resume early, process all entries timely, carry out diligent examination and shun compromise in the discharge of their duties

    Shortly after receiving the awards in Abuja, Comptroller Olomu while holding the plaques and certificates dedicated the honour to all officers and men of the command.

    The Area Controller described the achievements as result of teamwork, dedication, focus and cooperation. He said no leader can excel without supportive lieutenants and called for continuous support from all stakeholders as we enter the last month of the year 2024.

    While thanking the CGC for the honour bestowed on the command, Comptroller Olomu said as the number one Customs Officer in Nigeria, CGC Adeniyi has been a source of inspiration and good example for all officers to emulate.

    He further described the award as a motivation for selflessness, call for increased commitment and a challenge to sustain and improve on the tempo of work at the command which will cascade to all bonded terminals attached to it

    The Controller also urged all port users to rededicate themselves to national service by being law abiding and reporting suspected unlawful acts in the port to the service and other security agencies.

    Comptroller Olomu lauded import and export traders who have used Apapa Port within the period of his leadership and implored them to operate in full compliance with the guidelines for their trade. He specifically commented exporters who pioneered export activities under the Guided Trade Initiative (GTI) of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    Olomu urged more Nigerian business men and women to take advantage of the ease of doing business initiative to use Apapa Port. He invited them to tap into the simplified procedures being emplaced by the CGC under an evolving modernisation regime to trade seamlessly.

    The CAC admonished officers of the command not to see the awards of The best command of the year,The best command in revenue collection and the best Customs Area Controller as the end of hard work but a motivation and challenge to work harder

    He reminded them that compliance saves money, saves time, build integrity for positive profiling and helps in recognition for upgrade to the authorised economic operator (AEO) status

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