The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has commended the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for its significant progress in customs modernisation and trade facilitation.
She gave the commendation during the opening of the 145th/146th Sessions of the Customs Co-operation Council held on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Headquarters in Brussels.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala lauded the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for driving critical reforms that align with international trade standards. She noted that Nigeria’s deployment of technology, automation of processes, and improvements in border procedures demonstrate a commitment to enhancing trade efficiency and transparency.
“The leadership of CGC Adeniyi has positioned Nigeria as a model for customs modernisation in Africa. These reforms are crucial for strengthening global trade and fostering economic growth,” Dr. Okonjo-Iweala stated.
She further stressed the need for customs administrations globally to address complex technical issues such as rules of origin, customs valuation, and non-tariff barriers, which are vital components of smooth and transparent international trade.
In response, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, expressed appreciation for the recognition, describing it as an encouragement for the Service to sustain its reform agenda. He reiterated the NCS’s commitment to driving efficiency through technology, enhancing compliance, and fostering a culture of transparency.
“We are honoured by Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s recognition of our efforts. It validates the reforms we are undertaking in automation, capacity development, and trade facilitation. These efforts are not only for Nigeria but contribute to the broader goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” Adeniyi said.
The Comptroller-General also highlighted the importance of the strengthened collaboration between the WCO and WTO following the Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier in January 2025. The agreement, he noted, provides a framework for cooperation in critical areas such as customs valuation, rules of origin, and trade facilitation.
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