Adewale Adeniyi, the acting Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has set in motion innovative programmes and projects that will fully unlock the potential of NCS. These initiatives followed his appointment as the acting Comptroller-General of Customs on June 19 2023 while attending the Policy Commission and Council meetings of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) in Brussels, Belgium, a statement from NCS has revealed.
According to Abdullahi Maiwada, Chief Superintendent of Customs and National Public Relations Officer for Comptroller General of Customs, the pursuit of cutting-edge technologies while consolidating on previous gains, Nigeria Customs Service is poised to redefine customs practices for the better.
He said: “Leveraging this global platform, the Acting CG engaged in topical discussions within the global customs community, advocating for the exploration of AI-driven solutions, including Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions like ChatGPT and advanced geo-spatial intelligence approaches such as GEOINT. These technologies present immense potential for enhancing communication, decision-making processes, and enforcement operations within customs.
“Additionally, the NCS has already established a GEOINT unit, leveraging geospatial data, mapping techniques, and satellite imagery to gain valuable insights for customs operations. Collaborative engagements are already underway to operationalise the use of GEOINT to enhance the efficiency of NCS enforcement operations and contribute to overall efficiency. These advancements underline the NCS’s proactive approach toward embracing cutting-edge technologies.”
Maiwada added that the acting CG is also in talks with strategic partners including the WCO, Japan International Cooperation Agency, and the Japan Customs Administration towards the establishment of a modern laboratory meant to enhance trade facilitation across Nigeria.
“With its advanced analytical capabilities, the laboratory is expected to deliver precise identification, verification, and classification of goods, enabling efficient enforcement measures and informed decision-making, while fostering an environment of trust and credibility within Nigeria’s trade ecosystem, marking a transformative step towards achieving seamless customs operations, trade competitiveness, and national economic growth in line with the vision of the President Tinubu led administration,” Maiwada added.
The acting CG also engaged in discussions with relevant experts and donors with respect to conducting Time Release Study, implementation of Authorised Economic Operator programme as well as leadership and management development.
It should be recalled that at the World Customs Organisation’s meeting, Ian Saunders of the United States was elected as the new Secretary General of the WCO. The office sets the direction for customs practices worldwide.
