The Maritime Media Capacity Development Center (MMCDC) has commended the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) for its groundbreaking initiatives in capacity development and professional excellence, particularly under the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme.
In a press statement, MMCDC lauded NCS for training 3,270 officers nationwide as AEO Champions and granting full AEO certification to 120 companies, milestones that reflect the Service’s commitment to competence, transparency, and stakeholder engagement across Nigeria’s maritime and trade sectors.
Speaking during the 17th Session of the Capacity Building Committee of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) in Brussels, Deputy Comptroller of Customs and NCS National Public Relations Officer Abdullahi Maiwada highlighted the Service’s innovative reform communication framework. The framework, he said, focuses on institutional capacity building, human resource development, and proactive stakeholder engagement, which are essential for modernising customs operations and ensuring efficient, accountable trade practices.
The MMCDC further applauded the NCS for leveraging evidence-based storytelling, performance benchmarking, and digital tools like the Unified Customs Management System, B’Odogwu, to enhance transparency and public trust. Initiatives such as the Time Release Study (TRS), Advance Ruling Programme, and Customs Integrity Perception Survey were cited as examples of the Service’s forward-thinking approach to linking capacity development with measurable trade outcomes.
According to MMCDC Chairman; Mr Sesan Onileimo, “These initiatives are creating a cadre of highly trained officers capable of driving efficiency, integrity, and innovation across Nigeria’s maritime value chain. The benefits extend beyond the Service to businesses, communities, and the broader economy.”
The statement also commended the leadership of Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi, noting that his stewardship has positioned NCS as a global benchmark in capacity development among customs administrations.
The Centre notes with pride, that since his assumption of office, the Service has up-scaled the Customs Command and Staff College, in Abuja as well as the two Customs Training Colleges in Lagos and Kano. This has greatly enhanced the performance of all cadres of officers in the Service. This is evident in the exemplary performances of the NCS in trade facilitation, revenue collection, and suppression of importation of illegitimate items, and smuggling.
Looking ahead, MMCDC expressed optimism about continued collaboration with NCS, WCO member administrations, and stakeholders to further strengthen maritime governance, training, and professionalism, ensuring that Nigeria remains a leader in trade facilitation and maritime best practices.
