The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has called for enhanced governance reforms and operational efficiency in the management of government-owned companies.
This was the central theme of a high-level roundtable discussion hosted by the NCS at its Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.
The one-day event, aimed at addressing corporate governance challenges and promoting operational best practices, brought together stakeholders from the military, paramilitary, and financial sectors.
Key participants included the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, his management team, representatives from the Ministry of Finance, senior officers from the Nigerian Air Force, and board members of various government-owned enterprises.
Distinguished guest speakers such as Rear Admiral Suleiman Abdullahi, Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Umar (Rtd.), Professor Peter Akper, SAN, and Christopher Ekwozor, Managing Partner of Anaebonam Ken & Co, enriched the discussions.
In his keynote address, CGC Adeniyi emphasized the importance of corporate governance, financial autonomy, and operational efficiency in managing government-owned enterprises, particularly those affiliated with military and paramilitary organizations. He highlighted the contributions of the four companies operated by the Nigeria Customs Service to national economic growth, job creation, and service delivery.
“We are here today to examine these companies’ operational structures, corporate governance, and financial realities. By sharing experiences and identifying challenges, we can develop solutions that will drive growth and efficiency,” CGC Adeniyi stated.
Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Umar (Rtd.) provided insights into the evolution and management of military-owned companies, noting their significant role in service delivery and economic development. He cited the pioneering efforts of Engineering and Technical Services Limited and other entities such as Properties, Housing and Construction Services, and the Nigerian Air Force Investment Company Limited.
Rear Admiral Suleiman Abdullahi, a former Director of Logistics and Defence Administration, delved into the unique challenges faced by government-owned companies, particularly the need to balance government oversight with business autonomy. “Understanding the legal and structural frameworks of such companies is essential for their sustainability,” he noted.
The discussions also underscored the need for collaboration between security agencies and business entities to enhance efficiency and profitability. The dialogue fostered a renewed focus on aligning these enterprises with broader governance structures to maximize their impact on national economic growth.
Smart Akande, Esq., the NCS Director of Legal Services, expressed gratitude to CGC Adeniyi and his team for initiating the roundtable. He also commended the speakers and participants for their valuable contributions, stating, “Your perspectives have enriched our understanding of operational best practices for government-owned companies.”
The event concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening governance structures, improving operational standards, and ensuring that government-owned enterprises remain viable contributors to Nigeria’s economic development.
