In just one year at the helm of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has earned a reputation as a transformative leader, driving significant changes in revenue collection, trade facilitation, national security, and stakeholder collaboration. Appointed shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s inauguration, Adeniyi has steered the NCS through an ambitious agenda, making notable strides while identifying areas for further improvement.
Transformative Achievements
- Revenue Collection: A Landmark Achievement
Under Adeniyi’s leadership, the NCS reported a remarkable 74% increase in revenue collection, amassing N4.49 trillion between June 2023 and May 2024. This is a significant leap from the N2.58 trillion collected during the same period the previous year. Strategic initiatives such as the Revenue Review Performance Recovery exercise, which alone recovered N15 billion, and a 90-day window for regularizing ‘uncustomed’ vehicles, which brought-in N2.79 billion, have been instrumental in this success.
The daily all-time-high revenue collection of N58.5 billion on June 13, 2024, stands as a testament to the efficiency and effectiveness of the new measures that have been put in place.
- Trade Facilitation: Enhancing Nigeria’s Trading Efficiency
Adeniyi’s commitment to transforming Nigeria into Africa’s most efficient trading nation is evident in the various initiatives implemented. The decongestion of seaports, the enforcement of a 48-hour clearance directive at seaports, and the transition to the Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) programme have significantly streamlined Customs processes.
One of the most notable achievements is the dramatic improvement in NCS’s ranking by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC). The NCS moved from 34th place in 2023 to being tied at the top in 2024, reflecting an 81.5% increase in efficiency and service delivery.
- National Security: A Robust Defense Against Smuggling
The NCS has intensified its anti-smuggling operations under Adeniyi, resulting in high-value seizures and numerous arrests. Significant seizures include ₦566 million worth of animal and wildlife products, seven cases of arms and ammunition, and ₦6 billion worth of illicit drugs. The Service also seized 2.93 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), highlighting its commitment to combating fuel smuggling.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Building Strong Partnerships
Adeniyi has prioritized strategic communication and engagement with stakeholders, both nationally and internationally. The revival of the Comptroller-General of Customs Conference, the enhancement of the National Trade Facilitation Committee’s activities, and new collaborations with agencies like the Federal Road Safety Corps and many others have fostered a more cooperative and efficient customs environment.
Areas for Further Improvement
Despite these impressive achievements, there are areas where Adeniyi’s NCS can do more to sustain and build on the progress made.
- Modernization and Digitization
While significant steps have been taken towards modernization, the complete transition to a fully automated customs process is still underway. Accelerating the implementation of the National Single Window Trading Platform and further reducing manual processes will enhance efficiency and reduce corruption opportunities.
- Addressing Exchange Rate Fluctuations
A stable exchange rate is crucial for importers to plan their business activities effectively. Collaborating closely with the Central Bank of Nigeria to stabilise exchange rate for Customs duty payment will provide the predictability needed for economic planning and growth.
- Enhancing Inter-Agency Cooperation
Although significant strides have been made in inter-agency cooperation, there is room for more integrated and seamless operations among various government agencies involved in the trade and Customs processes. Strengthening these relationships can further help in reducing bottlenecks and improve service delivery.
- Expanding Corporate Social Responsibility
The upcoming launch of the NCS Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme promises to support education, healthcare, food security, and other social investment initiatives. Ensuring the timely and effective rollout of this programme will be crucial in demonstrating NCS’s commitment to societal welfare beyond its statutory duties.
Looking Ahead
Adewale Adeniyi’s first year as Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service has been marked by significant achievements and transformative policies. His leadership has not only enhanced the efficiency of the NCS, but also contributed to national security and economic growth. As Adeniyi continues to steer the ship, focusing on modernization, exchange rate stability, enhanced cooperation, and CSR will be key to sustaining and building on the successes of his first year.
Nigerians and stakeholders alike, have much to look forward to as Adeniyi leads the Nigeria Customs Service into another year of promising developments and improvements. His vision and dedication have indeed positioned him as the “Star Boy” of the Nigeria Customs Service, and a leader whose efforts are making a tangible difference in the nation’s economy.
