In Abuja on Tuesday, President Major General Muhammadu Buhari (ret.) commissioned the new Nigerian Customs Service headquarters. He stated that the emergence of increasingly sophisticated smuggling methods and the resulting security concerns need the development of a strong and responsive Customs agency.
He further added that it would improve the efficacy and efficiency of customs administration. Also, he claimed that this clarified why he had signed the new Customs Act into law.
Buhari made all these statements during the inauguration of Customs House, the new Nigerian Customs Service headquarters in Maitama, Abuja. He noted that-
“The recent increase in transnational crimes, smuggling, and security threats necessitates the need for a robust and agile Customs administration. I am fully cognizant of these challenges and the urgent need to address them”.
In a statement released on Tuesday by Femi Adesina, the Senior Special Assistant to the President for Media and Publicity, titled: ‘New Customs Act will enhance its efficiency and effectiveness, says President Buhari’.
According to Buhari-
“We are all aware of the challenges faced by our Customs service, particularly the issue of fragile borders that provide opportunities for illicit activities.
“I am pleased to highlight that in line with our commitment to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of our Customs administration, I recently signed the Customs Bill into law. The new Act, which is a product of extensive consultations and deliberations, represents a significant step towards modernising our Customs operations, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and promoting trade facilitation.”
Buhari praised Col. Hameed Ali, the Comptroller-General of Customs, for fulfilling the 2015 mandate that was given to him.
“Over the years, he has earned my trust and support through his selfless service, and relentless pursuit of excellence without compromising his personal integrity,” he said.
Zainab Ahmed, the Minister of Finance, Budget, and National Planning also had something to say. She also serves as the organization’s Board Chair. She said the house is a representation of the Service’s unwavering commitment to enhancing its operations and its readiness to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century.
cc: Punch Ng
