The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has commended the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for its recent reforms aimed at improving trade facilitation and creating a more business-friendly environment.
The commendation came on Thursday, April 4, 2025, during a courtesy visit by NECA’s leadership to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, at the NCS Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.
Speaking during the visit, NECA President, Dr Ifeanyi Okogwu, applauded the NCS for implementing policies such as the Advance Ruling system, the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, and the Time Release Study, which he said are instrumental in easing the challenges faced by businesses, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
“These are not just reforms on paper; they are practical tools helping businesses operate more efficiently. NECA remains committed to partnering with the Customs Service to ensure the private sector continues to thrive,” Dr Okogwu stated.
In his response, CGC Adeniyi expressed gratitude for NECA’s recognition, emphasizin the Service’s resolve to engage the private sector in building a more inclusive trade environment.
“At Customs, we see ourselves not only as enforcers of law but also as facilitators of trade. We are committed to simplifying our processes and deepening engagement with business stakeholders,” he said.
The Comptroller-General further reaffirmed NCS’s readiness to strengthen public-private collaboration for sustainable economic growth.
The visit ended with both institutions pledging to enhance cooperation in pursuit of Nigeria’s economic development objectives.
