NCS Board convenes inaugural meeting, pledges to ensure smooth trade facilitation
The inaugural meeting of the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS) Board took place on Tuesday, 19 December 2023, under the leadership of Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun FCS, at Customs Headquarters in Abuja.
During the meeting, Minister Edun expressed a strong commitment to seamless collaboration with Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, in ensuring smoother trade processes. As the Chairman of the NCS Board, Edun outlined a three-fold vision aimed at reshaping the nation’s economic landscape, focusing on trade, revenue, and overall economic vitality.
Edun emphasized his dedication to increasing government revenue, reinforcing spending on critical infrastructure and social services, and navigating the complexities of macroeconomic reform.
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He declared, “Today marks a pivotal moment in our pursuit of economic resilience, seeking substantial augmentation of government funds to propel crucial initiatives and ensure unhindered progress.”
Beyond revenue generation, Edun expressed a commitment to creating an environment where every citizen reaps the tangible benefits of economic prosperity, discussing measures to provide affordable transportation, ensure food security, and alleviate daily burdens for Nigerians. 
He stated, “The President will be briefed comprehensively on our vision to lower the cost of living for Nigerians through efforts to facilitate trade and boost our economy. We aim to implement measures that not only ease financial burdens but also elevate living standards for every citizen.”
Edun envisioned a transformed trade landscape characterised by efficiency, speed, and adherence to international best practices.
He announced plans to implement the National Single Window project, a community-driven initiative promising to revolutionize Customs procedures.
Describing the project’s significance, Edun highlighted its role in modernisation, automating processes, and ensuring electronic transmission of information and data across payment stakeholders. The initiative, he emphasized, is not just a technological upgrade but a strategic move to strengthen Customs and revenue, becoming a key contributor to the nation’s economic growth.
The Minister’s visionary address echoed through the corridors of the Nigeria Customs Service, heralding a new era for Nigeria with promises of economic prosperity, social upliftment, and a commitment to excellence.