Stakeholders have commended the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for introducing several trade-friendly reforms aimed at making import and export processes smoother, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
The praise came during the 2025 NCS Trade Facilitation Stakeholders Forum held in Ikeja, which also marked the first anniversary of the agency's Advanced Ruling Programme. The event's theme focused on promoting trade for renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies.
Notable initiatives by NCS include the B'Odogwu Unified Customs Management System, the Advance Ruling System, Authorised Economic Operator Programme, and the Time Release Study. These are designed to simplify documentation, speed up customs clearance, and provide more predictability for businesses.
A stakeholder, Olatomiwa Olafaremi, highlighted the benefits of the new systems, especially the Advance Ruling Programme, noting that although minor issues exist, the process overall has been smooth and transparent—even without insider connections.
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Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, represented by DCG Caroline Niagwan, said these reforms align with global trade agreements such as WTO and WCO conventions. He stressed that customs procedures are often complex but are being improved to reduce delays, costs, and disputes—especially for compliant traders.
He also emphasised that trade facilitation is key to helping SMEs participate in global trade and highlighted NCS's support for the Green Customs Initiative, which promotes the trade of environmentally friendly goods.
The event reinforced NCS's commitment to simplifying trade, enhancing transparency, and supporting sustainable economic growth through smarter customs systems.
