Nigeria Customs Service Under CG Ali’s Leadership: Landmark achievements, reforms
Story from Haruna YUSUF, Abuja
The National Public Relations Officer (NPRO) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, highlighted some of the significant achievements of the service under the leadership of Comptroller General of Customs, Col. Hameed Ali (Rtd.) CFR l.
These achievements include the trade modernisation project and the completion of the Nigeria Customs Service Corporate Headquarters in Abuja.
Furthermore, the most noteworthy milestone was the repeal of the outdated Customs and Excise Management Acts, which has been replaced by the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
Maiwada emphasized that the previous law had been in effect for over 63 years and was in dire need of updating.
The introduction of a new legal framework enables the service to function in accordance with 21st-century customs practices.
He conveyed this information to journalists and stakeholders in the maritime industry during a 2-Day Retreat organized by the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) in Badagry.
The retreat’s theme was “Enhancing Capacity/Efficiency in Modern News Reportage.”
CSC Maiwada also pointed out that, in terms of performance, the Nigeria Customs Service surpasses some of its counterparts in other developing countries.
He expressed their commitment to continually improving service delivery, trade facilitation, and capacity building.
Recognizing the significance of training and doctrine (TRADOC), a separate formation was established to oversee the doctrine and training needs of the service.
Additionally, a Deputy Comptroller General of Customs, serving as the 7th member of the Board of the Nigeria Customs Service, was appointed.
These developments have paved the way for extensive training and retraining programs, both domestically and internationally.
Maiwada highlighted the trade modernization projects that aim to streamline and automate the entire process and procedures of the Nigeria Customs Service.