SENATE COMMENDS CUSTOMS REFORMS UNDER ADENIYI

The Senate has commended the reform efforts of the Nigeria Customs Service under its Comptroller-General, Bashir Adeniyi, describing the changes as important to improving revenue collection and trade facilitation.

The lawmakers said the reforms had helped strengthen customs operations, improve transparency, and enhance the efficiency of Nigeria’s border management system.

They also acknowledged efforts to modernise customs processes through technology and digital platforms, which have reduced some manual procedures and improved the monitoring of imports and exports.

The Senate noted that an efficient customs administration is important to boosting government revenue while making legitimate trade easier for businesses.

Lawmakers urged the Customs Service to sustain the reforms and continue addressing challenges affecting importers, exporters, and other stakeholders.

They also called for stronger collaboration between Customs and other government agencies involved in border management to reduce duplication and improve coordination.

Stakeholders said continued digitalisation could help reduce delays, improve compliance, and limit opportunities for revenue leakages and smuggling.

The Senate also stressed the need for customs officials to maintain professionalism and ensure that enforcement activities do not unnecessarily disrupt legitimate businesses.

Adeniyi said the service remained focused on improving its operations, strengthening revenue collection, and supporting the Federal Government’s trade and economic objectives.

The Senate encouraged the Customs Service to build on the progress recorded and pursue reforms that would strengthen Nigeria’s position as a competitive trading hub in the region.

The lawmakers reaffirmed their support for initiatives aimed at modernising customs administration and improving the ease of doing business at Nigeria’s borders.