The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to leveraging technology to drive reforms and modernisation across the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
He made this declaration while declaring open a three-day ICT retreat organised by the ICT/Modernisation Department of the Service. The retreat, themed “Turn off Work; Turn on Retreat”, held at IBETO Hotels, Abuja, commenced on Friday, April 16, 2025.
The event is focused on enhancing the technical capacity of officers in areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud Computing, Software Development, and other critical components of Customs’ digital transformation efforts.
Addressing participants at the opening session, CGC Adeniyi expressed satisfaction with the level of participation, describing it as “the largest gathering of highly talented, motivated, and skilled ICT officers in the history of the Service.”
He stated; “Every time I engage with this department, I’m reminded of a meeting many years ago where I urged officers to see themselves as drivers of change in the Nigeria Customs Service. That vision is now more important than ever.”
The CGC noted the transformative impact of digital technologies on global customs operations from machine learning to automated risk management and non-intrusive inspection. He stressed that ICT is no longer a support service but the “engine room” of NCS modernisation.
“As we shift from legacy systems to homegrown digital platforms, I expect this unit to continue developing innovative solutions to the complex challenges we face,” he added.
He acknowledged challenges ahead, including the expiration of some IT service agreements, but expressed confidence in the department’s ability to deliver. He praised recent achievements such as the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, automation of container transfers, and digital customs declarations.
Highlighting the growing international recognition of Nigerian Customs officers especially at the World Customs Organization (WCO) the CGC noted their leadership in areas like data harmonisation and digital trade compliance.
“We must begin to view ICT not merely as a department but as the driving force behind a responsive, modern, and professional Customs Service,” Adeniyi said. “Let technology lead.”
He further tasked the Service to reduce physical examinations at ports by at least 50% before the end of the third quarter of 2025 through digital profiling, artificial intelligence, and other non-intrusive technologies.
Also speaking at the event, Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of ICT/Modernisation, Kikelomo Adeola, who convened the retreat, affirmed the department’s commitment to the CGC’s vision.
“The task ahead may seem daunting, but when great minds unite with a shared purpose, no challenge is insurmountable,” she said. “We will prevail with divine guidance and collective resolve.”
She assured that the ICT/Modernisation Department is ready to strengthen existing systems, drive innovation, and uphold the Service’s values of integrity, professionalism, and institutional excellence.
