In commemoration of the 2025 International Customs Day, the Zone ‘A’ Coordinator of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), OC Orbih, has called on customs officers to adopt innovation, collaboration, and professionalism as guiding principles in their operations.
Speaking at the celebration held at Tin Can Island Port, Orbih emphasized the agency’s pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s economic resilience and global trade competitiveness.
In his welcome address, the Zonal Coordinator, OC noted the global significance of International Customs Day, which celebrates the contributions of customs administrations to national development. This year’s theme, “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity,” according to him aligns with the vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
Orbih explained that the CGC’s focus on collaboration, consolidation, and innovation is key to achieving the Service’s objectives. He highlighted the need for teamwork across departments, partnerships with international and local agencies, and a unified approach to customs operations. He also stressed the adoption of advanced technologies and creative solutions to improve the Service’s capacity to protect Nigeria’s economic interests.
The Coordinator described customs officers as “the silent architects of national prosperity,” highlighting their role as guardians of Nigeria’s economic frontiers and facilitators of global trade. He called on the officers to incorporate the principles of the theme into their daily interactions and decisions, emphasizing that their collective actions will determine Nigeria’s economic competitiveness and national security.
Calling on leaders and policymakers, the Coordinator urged for strategic investments in the Customs Service, including infrastructure upgrades, enhanced technological capabilities, and improved human capital. He stressed that such support would directly contribute to national economic resilience, security, and global competitiveness.
During the celebration, Orbih recognized the contributions of outstanding officers and stakeholders who have advanced the Service’s mission of revenue collection, trade facilitation, and economic protection. He commended their dedication and urged all customs officers to embrace the theme of efficiency, security, and prosperity throughout the year.
On his part, the Area Controller of Tin Can Island Port Command, Comptroller FO Onyeka, highlighted innovations being implemented at the command to boost efficiency and transparency. He revealed plans for the deployment of the Nigeria Customs Unified Management System (UCMS) and the integration of advanced technologies like blockchain, e-Customs platforms, and artificial intelligence. These measures, according to him are aimed at reducing delays, streamlining processes, and meeting global best practices.
On security, Onyeka detailed the deployment of smart border technologies, including non-intrusive scanners and risk profiling tools, which have bolstered efforts to intercept illicit trade while promoting legitimate commerce. Under the Tincan Anti-Smuggling Initiative, the command has recorded significant achievements in combating contraband goods and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Revenue collection was also a key highlight by the CAC, with the command surpassing its 2024 targets, significantly contributing to national infrastructure and social programs. Onyeka noted efforts to promote sustainability by supporting trade in environmentally friendly technologies and complying with international conventions on hazardous materials.
Both Orbih and Onyeka called for stronger collaboration with stakeholders, including terminal operators, freight forwarders, and international partners. They urged customs officers to uphold integrity, professionalism, and accountability in their duties, stressing that these principles are essential to achieving Nigeria’s economic prosperity.
