Customs achieves 66.9% reduction in cargo clearance time — Adeniyi

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on Monday, announced a 66.9% reduction in cargo clearance time through the implementation of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme.

He noted the critical role of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in ensuring trade efficiency, compliance, and national security.

Adeniyi disclosed this in Abuja, during the commemoration of the International Customs Day (ICD) event, and praised the dedication of customs officers in overcoming challenges to fulfill their responsibilities.

The annual global event celebrates the contributions of customs officials to trade facilitation and security. As part of the celebrations, outstanding officers were recognized and awarded for their exceptional performance in tackling smuggling, promoting compliance, and enhancing trade efficiency.

He said: “In pursuit of operational efficiency, the Service has made significant strides in modernizing our processes and procedures. Our commitment to efficiency is evidenced by several key achievements over the years.

“Notably, the successful implementation of the Advanced Ruling System, providing binding decisions on classification and valuation before shipment arrival, thereby reducing clearance delays and disputes, is one of the recent references to our efforts to deliver efficiency.

“Moreover, the remarkable success of our Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme, which has achieved an average release time of 43 hours for certified companies, representing a 66.9% reduction in cargo clearance time, is another recent instance.”

Adeniyi assured that the NCS remains committed to further improving efficiency and national security, which are vital for prosperity.

He added, “Looking ahead, guided by this year’s theme, ‘Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity,’ our strategic vision aligns seamlessly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s policy direction and global customs best practices, focusing on transformative initiatives that will revolutionize trade facilitation and enforcement.

“The nationwide trade modernization deployment, comprehensive AEO program implementation, enhanced technology-driven risk management, and the groundbreaking establishment of the Nigeria Customs Service University for Trade and Technology will serve as additional key performance indicators as we evaluate our achievements at the end of the year.”

In his address, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, commended the Customs Service for its intensified efforts in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and facilitating legitimate trade.

Gen. Musa said: “Security cannot be achieved without Customs, as you cover every aspect of human life. The Customs Service plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth flow of goods across borders while protecting our country from illicit trade, smuggling, and other threats.

“Your unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism is commendable and serves as a shining example for all. In this ever-evolving landscape of global trade and security challenges, the Nigeria Customs Service has consistently demonstrated its adaptability, resilience, and innovation.”

He further stressed the importance of synergy among agencies, noting that collaboration is key to improving customs processes, enhancing security, and ensuring the nation’s safety.

In his remarks, the Secretary-General of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Mr. Ian Saunders, also addressed the gathering online, underscoring the importance of customs operations to global prosperity.

Saunders said: “The ultimate goal, prosperity, depends on our ability to ensure fair revenue collection, foster innovation, support sustainable economic development, and create inclusive policies that address the diverse needs of citizens.

“While Customs works every day to improve efficiency, security, and prosperity, we must better communicate our achievements to governments and society at large. This year, we challenge ourselves to tell the stories of Customs’ positive impact through a blend of data and compelling, people-centered narratives.”

He called for enhanced transparency and storytelling to showcase the ongoing efforts and significant contributions of customs operations worldwide.