The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to trade facilitation anchored on strict regulatory compliance, as the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, engaged officers and key stakeholders during his official working visit to the Kano/Jigawa Area Command.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement on Thursday, 19 December 2025, the Comptroller-General stressed that sustainable trade facilitation can only be achieved within a framework of transparency, integrity and full compliance with Customs laws and procedures.
Addressing officers of the Command, Adeniyi charged them to remain disciplined, dedicated and professional in the discharge of their duties, noting that the credibility and effectiveness of the Service are directly linked to the conduct of its personnel.
“The strength of the Nigeria Customs Service lies in the integrity, dedication and discipline of its officers. Without these core values, neither trade facilitation nor national development can be sustainably achieved,” he said.
The CGC commended the Customs Area Controller, Kano/Jigawa Area Command, Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar, for his leadership and outstanding performance, particularly in revenue generation and stakeholder engagement. Describing him as one of the best-performing Area Controllers in the Service, Adeniyi noted that his approach to stakeholder management has set a new standard.
“Comptroller Zurmi has taken stakeholder engagement to a new level. This is why he was recognised as the best Area Controller in stakeholder management during our last award night,” the CGC stated.
During an interactive session with stakeholders, Adeniyi reiterated the Service’s openness to constructive ideas and innovations aimed at easing the flow of legitimate trade, provided such initiatives align with established procedures and compliance requirements.
“For us, the basic requirement is compliance. Once there is compliance, we are open to ideas that will facilitate trade,” he said.
On ongoing reforms and technology deployment, the Comptroller-General explained that the indigenous Customs clearance platform, B’Odogwu, has significantly improved transparency and operational efficiency. He added that the introduction of electronic tracking devices for transit containers has already produced tangible results, including the interception of diverted consignments and the arrest of offenders.
“Technology will make it increasingly difficult for anyone to divert cargo. We are already seeing results, and we will sustain this momentum,” he assured stakeholders.
In his remarks, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Abubakar Dalhatu, expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their continued cooperation, describing them as critical partners in the achievement of the Command’s mandate.
“What we are witnessing in Kano is true partnership. Stakeholders have supported the Command in different ramifications. This reflects trust, shared responsibility and mutual commitment,” he said.
Several stakeholders from various sectors commended developments within the Nigeria Customs Service, expressing satisfaction with the improved synergy, openness and ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing compliance, revenue optimisation and trade facilitation.
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