The Acting Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has reiterated his commitment to taking decisive actions against those who seek to undermine Nigeria’s economy through the illicit business of smuggling. He made this statement on September 19, 2023, during a meeting with a delegation from the United Nations Human Settlements Programme, UN-Habitat, led by Dr. Raymond Edoh, at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja.
The Acting Comptroller-General expressed his determination to collaborate with UN-Habitat in their campaign against smuggling and offered unwavering support for their efforts. He even assigned one of the Nigeria Customs Service’s Deputy Comptroller-Generals, Abba Kura, to work closely with the UN-Habitat team.
He commended the delegation for traveling from afar to engage the Nigeria Customs Service in their mission to combat smuggling, noting that the Service had already achieved positive results in curtailing this menace.
Furthermore, the Acting Comptroller-General welcomed Dr. Raymond’s proposal to provide training in digital literacy skills to Customs officers and personnel. He emphasized the Customs Service’s commitment to embracing technology and introducing relevant courses for its officers.
The Acting Comptroller-General highlighted the significance of the collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and UN-Habitat, describing it as a mutual commitment to combat smuggling and promote trade facilitation for a more prosperous future.
He stated, “Our aim is to modernize the Customs Service through partnerships with stakeholders because we highly value collaboration. I’m delighted that you have extended your hand of partnership to work with us.”
The Acting Comptroller-General also expressed his gratitude for the pledge to enhance the digital skills of Customs officers and assured that the Service would continue to prioritize proficiency in its fight against smuggling through technological means.
Dr. Raymond Edoh, the Director of UN-Habitat, conveyed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting the Acting Comptroller-General with the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service. He praised the Acting Comptroller-General as a competent Customs officer with a deep understanding of the field.
Dr. Edoh explained that their visit to the Acting Comptroller-General at the Customs Headquarters was to express their interest in collaborating with the Service. He recognized the Customs Service as a guardian of the nation, protecting citizens against border threats, and affirmed UN-Habitat’s commitment to partnering with NCS to combat the smuggling of illicit goods. Additionally, he pledged to provide training in digital literacy skills and certification to Customs officers and personnel.
UN-Habitat is the United Nations body responsible for formulating urban policies and translating them into actionable initiatives aimed at creating sustainable cities and fostering viable urban development, while ensuring adequate shelter for all.
