The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has called for stronger collaboration among customs administrations in West and Central Africa (WCA).
Adeniyi made this appeal during the Cultural Night-Out and Dinner at the fourth World Customs Organisation – WCA Donor Conference held on Thursday.
He said the WCA region must embrace greater cooperation, collaboration, and mutual understanding to achieve shared goals.
According to him, this united effort would boost economic growth across the region and enhance the welfare of its people.
He noted that African nations share cultural values, stating that their dances and traditions highlight the continent’s uniqueness and foster unity.
Adeniyi said Africa should focus more on what unites its people rather than on divisive issues.
“Those things that unite us are more important than those that separate us,” he emphasised.
He added, “It is vital that we now focus on the elements that bring us together.”
He warned against external influences that create division within the region, urging unity instead.
The NSC boss said the Cultural Night celebrates more than culture — “it promotes regional integration essential for customs, security, and economic cooperation,” he said.
He stressed the importance of collaboration, given that customs services face shared responsibilities in trade, security, and revenue generation.
Amadou Konate, Vice President of the WCO/WCA region, praised the cultural displays, noting they reflect the region’s shared values.
Konate expressed optimism that discussions at the conference would strengthen customs operations across WCA countries.
He said the gathering also allows for reflection on reforms and opportunities for deeper partnerships to address common challenges.
Konate noted that countries in the region are learning from Nigeria’s customs reforms and modernisation strategies.
