OGFZA enhances collaboration with Nigeria Customs Service

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA), Bamanga Usman Jada, recently welcomed Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Port Harcourt Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone Command, Comptroller Usman Seriki, on a courtesy visit at the Authority’s head office in Onne.

During the meeting, Comptroller Seriki highlighted that his visit aligns with the policy direction of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), CGS Bashir Adewale Adeniyi. The aim is to enhance collaboration with stakeholders to boost efficiency in revenue collection and trade facilitation.

Comptroller Seriki reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the relationship between OGFZA and NCS, emphasising the importance of improving trade facilitation and regulatory compliance within the Oil and Gas Free Zones. “This relationship is significant because it will enhance operational efficiency, trade facilitation, and regulatory compliance in the Oil and Gas Free Zone,” he stated.

In response, Jada expressed his gratitude for the CAC’s visit and acknowledged the valuable contributions of the Customs Service to the successes of the Zone. He noted the positive impact of the existing synergy between the two agencies and emphasised that continued collaboration could further stimulate economic growth by increasing trade volumes and fostering a more efficient and attractive business environment within Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Free Zones. “This cooperation can further contribute to the overall economic growth by boosting trade volume and creating a more efficient and appealing business environment in Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Free Zones,” he affirmed.

In a related development, Comptroller Mohammed Babandede of the Area II Command Onne also paid a courtesy visit to Jada at his office in Maitama, Abuja, on Monday, July 29, 2024. During this visit, Comptroller Babandede assured the MD/CEO of the Comptroller General, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi’s commitment to collaborating with OGFZA to facilitate trade and encourage exports. This collaboration aims to achieve a balanced trade and improve foreign exchange revenue for the country.