Acting Customs CG applauds President Tinubu’s ECOWAS Chairmanship appointment
Story from Haruna YUSUF
Adewale Adeniyi MFR, the Acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) extended his congratulations to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his recent appointment as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
During a private visit to the Presidential Villa in Abuja on July 11, 2023, Adewale met with President Tinubu and expressed his delight that his appointment coincided with his own emergence as the Acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service.
Adewale conveyed his optimism that President Tinubu’s appointment would contribute to improved regional integration, cooperation, border security, and coordinated monetary affairs.
One of the topics discussed during their meeting was active engagement with Customs administrations across the borders, especially strategic ones, to foster collaboration and achieve common objectives in border security and regional integration.
Adewale added, “I will be making an official visit to the Republic of Benin to hold discussions with the Benin Customs Administration regarding border security issues, cross-border importation, and, most importantly, the implementation of technological solutions to address complex border challenges.”
He also took the opportunity to express his profound gratitude to President Tinubu for deeming him worthy of the role of Acting Comptroller General of Customs, highlighting the fruitful and engaging nature of their meeting.
“President Tinubu is an attentive listener. We discussed how Customs can contribute to the vision of renewed hope for Nigeria, bridging gaps in revenue generation, enforcement strategies, and, most importantly, promoting port efficiency and competitiveness,” Adewale explained.
The Acting Comptroller General of Customs assured of pragmatic efforts to decongest Nigerian ports, which would enhance revenue generation, facilitate legitimate trade, and combat smuggling.
Furthermore, Adewale mentioned ongoing processes to review the current situation in relation to the objective of the border closure.
He assured the public that when the borders are reopened, it will be done in a transparent manner without fueling speculation.
Regarding rumours of integrating government agencies, Adewale stated that he is not privy to any specific information about such plans.
While acknowledging the common ground and potential for collaboration among revenue-generating agencies, he emphasized the need for detailed information before making any decisions.
In conclusion, Adewale reiterated his commitment to the goals outlined in the Presidential Advisory Council documents and highlighted the importance of aligning Customs activities with those objectives.
