The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has agreed to deepen structured engagements with the American Business Council aimed at improving trade facilitation and strengthening investor confidence.
The National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada, said in a statement that the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, told a delegation from the American Business Council, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Margaret Olele, in Abuja last week that the NCS has, in recent years, made deliberate efforts to institutionalise transparency, stakeholder consultation, and regular engagement with industry players.
“No modern customs administration can thrive without meaningful dialogue with the people who drive business across our ports and borders,” he said.
According to him, the NCS has prioritised reforms that enhance predictability for traders, including the deployment of the One-Stop-Shop initiative across major commands to streamline processes and reduce delays during cargo examination and documentation.
He assured the delegation that the NCS would continue to address operational challenges within its mandate and that trade facilitation remains a shared responsibility among multiple agencies, underscoring the importance of sustained dialogue to resolve issues as they arise.
Responding, the Chief Executive Officer of the American Business Council, Margaret Olele, said that the visit was aimed at strengthening ties with the NCS.
She acknowledged what she described as “clear improvements in port processes, communication channels and the ease of resolving trade-related enquiries.”
She added that many American companies operating in Nigeria have reported improved clarity in customs procedures over the past year.
“Predictability and transparency are essential for businesses. We are encouraged by the modernisation steps taken under the legal framework of the NCS Act 2023, and we look forward to deepening this partnership to address remaining concerns,” she said.
She appreciated the Customs boss for personally receiving the delegation, noting that his presence demonstrated the Service’s commitment to partnership.
She stressed that enhanced cooperation between the NCS and the private sector would significantly strengthen Nigeria’s investment climate.
Both sides later agreed to hold quarterly engagement sessions to review progress, address emerging issues, and keep communication channels open for American companies operating in the country.
GIK/APA