Customs Service envisions enhanced partnership with compliant stakeholders in 2024 (Pictures)
The Nigeria Customs Service has affirmed its commitment to fostering significantly improved relationships with compliant stakeholders in 2024.
Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, made this commitment during the International Customs Day Celebration at the Customs Training College, Ikeja, Lagos, on Friday, January 26, 2024. The event was attended by dignitaries including the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and the Representative of the Honourable Minister of Trade, Investment and Industries, as well as other chief executives of relevant agencies.
The CGC emphasized that the chosen theme for this year’s celebration, ‘Customs, Engaging Traditional and New Partners with a Purpose,’ resonates with the service’s core objectives of consolidation, innovation, and collaboration.
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He noted, “We commit to fostering a substantially improved relationship with all of you, our stakeholders, especially those who respect our rules. We recognise that authentic partnerships are constructed on mutual respect and understanding.”
Furthermore, the CGC announced the upcoming launch of a Time Release Study in February 2024, aiming to optimise customs processes and reduce the release time for goods at ports and border stations. He urged the cooperation of all partners, particularly those organised under the National Trade Facilitation Committee, in this endeavor.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, stressed the importance of collaborative efforts in facilitating trade and enhancing revenue generation.
Commending the Nigeria Customs Service’s adoption of cargo clearance through the use of scanners, he affirmed that this move will boost revenue, enhance port efficiency, and reduce cargo turnaround time.
The Minister assured of his ministry’s support for collaborative engagements with stakeholders in the international trade community, with a focus on sustainable use of Ocean and Coastal Resources for Economic Growth.
The event also witnessed special recognition of internal and external stakeholders through awards presented by the World Customs Organization Headquarters.
Notable among the recipients was the Public Relations Unit of the Nigeria Customs Service and the Caretaker group of the Nigeria Customs Broadcasting Network (NCBN) for rendering exceptional service to the International Customs Community, along with officers and men of the service who have exhibited commitment to collaboration and unity through their work.
See pictures below :
