The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has emphasized its commitment to fostering collaboration with global partners and neighbouring countries as a critical element of its operational strategy under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC).
This was reiterated by the National Public Relations Officer (PRO), Abdullahi Maiwada, in a chat with our correspondent about the NCS’s efforts to return stolen vehicles to foreign countries and the cooperation received from neighboring nations.
Recall that recently, the NCS announced the successful return of stolen vehicles worth over ₦8.1 billion to the Canadian government. This significant achievement the service stated underscored the service’s dedication to upholding international standards of collaboration. However, Maiwada noted that such cooperation transcends vehicle repatriation, extending to various dimensions of customs administration and regional integration.
Highlighting the strategic focus of the Comptroller General’s leadership, Maiwada stated that collaboration is a core pillar of Customs’ policy thrust, alongside innovation and consolidation. He explained that the NCS maintains strong partnerships with domestic and international stakeholders, fostering mutual benefits and facilitating cross-border trade.
“Our collaboration entails relationships with partners both within and outside the country,” Maiwada note, and added that. “these relationships have translated into several trade successes and progressive reforms.”
He said a case in point is the development of integrated border operations, such as the Segbana border in Kebbi State, which is set to be upgraded to a one-stop border post.
This initiative Maiwada said, exemplifies how the NCS leverages partnerships to streamline border processes and enhance trade efficiency.
He explained that while the repatriation of stolen vehicles is a notable aspect of international cooperation, he emphasized that collaboration with global and regional partners extends beyond this area.
‘For instance, the NCS recently hosted a training session on World Customs Organization (WCO) rules of origin, attracting participation from various African customs administrations.
“We are learning from other customs administrations as well,” he said, referencing a recent visit from a representative of the Ghana Revenue Authority. “Such engagements allow us to implement best practices and strengthen our operational framework.”
In addition, he said Nigeria has played a pivotal role within the World Customs Organisation (WCO) West and Central Africa region.
He said the CGC recently handed over leadership of this regional bloc to Mali’s Customs Chief, pledging continued support in capacity-building and other areas of collaboration.
Beyond the African continent, he informed that NCS has signed several high-profile agreements to bolster international trade and customs administration. These include:
Customs Mutual Administrative Agreement (CMA) with India: Signed during the Indian Prime Minister’s visit to Nigeria, this agreement he said fosters bilateral trade and strengthens customs enforcement.
Reinvigoration of the CMA with the United States: In partnership with the U.S. Border Protection Agency, he said the NCS seeks to enhance cross-border security and streamline trade facilitation.
Collaboration with China Customs (GACC): This partnership he said underscores Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging global networks for capacity-building and operational excellence.
“Collaboration does not have to be limited to vehicle returns,” Maiwada explained. “It can take various forms, including training, capacity development, and knowledge sharing.”
On the specific inquiry regarding the total value of stolen vehicles returned to other countries this year, Maiwada admitted that such data was not immediately available. However, he assured that efforts were ongoing to compile and share the information.
He emphasized the NCS’s proactive stance in ensuring that such collaborations yield tangible benefits for both Nigeria and its partners. “For the value of the vehicles intercepted, I don’t currently have the data,” he said. “But if I get it, I will get across to you.
“We have a robust relationship with our neighbours, which has translated into several achievements,” he said. The integration of the Segbana border as a one-stop border post and the adoption of the SIGMAT system are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen regional trade and security frameworks.
“Collaboration comes in different spheres, and we are proud to be making significant strides in all of them.”
