In a significant development aimed at bolstering trade facilitation and economic growth in Northern Nigeria, the Arewa Economic Forum (AEF) has declared unwavering support for the Acting Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR. This announcement came during a meeting held on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja, where both parties discussed strategies to enhance regional development and cross-border trade.
The Chairman of the Arewa Economic Forum, Ibrahim Shehu Dandakata, commended Acting CGC Bashir Adeniyi for his steadfast commitment to improving border security and trade facilitation in the Northern region. Mr. Dandakata expressed his organization’s full endorsement, stating that Adeniyi’s dedication to implementing policies benefiting the region was “one hundred percent absolute.”
Dandakata also paid tribute to the late Dikko Inde, the former Comptroller-General of Customs, for his contributions to the Northern region’s development. He expressed optimism that Adeniyi’s administration would surpass the achievements of previous CGCs, citing a swift response to regional concerns as evidence of their commitment.
“We are talking about fiscal policies and establishing an environment conducive for business growth in Northern Nigeria, especially in agriculture,” Dandakata remarked, emphasizing the sustainable and far-reaching impact of Adeniyi’s initiatives.
During their meeting, Dandakata praised the Acting CGC for his proactive steps to improve conditions in the North, noting that Nigeria now enjoys a responsive government. He also conveyed the AEF’s eagerness to witness the expansion of cross-border trade in Ilela, a move that promises to invigorate the regional economy.
Dandakata seized the opportunity to urge the Acting CGC to address the state of Inland Dry Ports in the North, asserting their crucial role in facilitating regional businesses, which are currently hampered by their non-functionality.
Furthermore, Dandakata extended an invitation to the Acting CGC for an upcoming Economic Summit scheduled to take place before year-end. He assured that the summit would center on promoting Northern investment opportunities.
In response, Acting Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi underscored his administration’s dedication to enhancing trade in Northern Nigeria, recognizing its pivotal role in bolstering the nation’s economy and overall prosperity. He also discussed the impact of the situation in Niger Republic on trade in Nigeria and stressed the need for peace in the region to facilitate trade talks.
Adeniyi assured the AEF delegation of Customs’ commitment to addressing Inland Port issues and promised to engage with the Federal Government to expedite the process, expressing Customs’ willingness to support the cause.
Regarding the upcoming Economic Summit, the Acting CGC expressed keen interest in attending, recognizing the substantial economic potential in Northern Nigeria that, when revitalized, could significantly contribute to national economic development.
