Nigeria Customs Service Explores Advanced Technology Solutions to Improve Trade Facilitation and Revenue Generation
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is actively seeking advanced technology solutions to enhance trade facilitation and revenue generation. Recently, a delegation from the NCS, led by the Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, participated in the World Customs Organization (WCO) Technology Conference and Exhibition in Hanoi, Vietnam.
The conference, held from 10th to 12th October 2023, featured presentations showcasing Vietnam’s dynamic economy, setting the tone for the event. Dr. Kunio Mikuriya, the Secretary General of the WCO, highlighted the critical role of technology in supporting Customs Administrations worldwide.
Acting CGC Adeniyi emphasized the significance of the WCO Technology Conference, which has been a pivotal event for over a decade. It provides a platform for customs administrations, partner companies, sponsors, and technology firms to collaborate and exchange insights on the effective integration of technology in customs operations.
Adeniyi expressed his enthusiasm, stating, We’ve learned a lot, seeing the deployment of artificial intelligence, machine learning, non-intrusive technology, and various data analytics to analyze customs issues and provide solutions. He believes adopting these technological solutions will be a game-changer for Nigeria, improving trade facilitation and revenue generation, and expressed readiness to initiate their adoption in Nigeria.
The conference also featured breakout sessions that delved into contemporary challenges and innovative solutions, including gender equality. One of the discussants, Chief Superintendent of Customs Oluwabukola Omoniyi from Nigeria, participated in these sessions.
The NCS made a strong commitment to embracing e-commerce processes, with the Assistant Comptroller-General in charge of ICT/Modernization, ACG Kikelomo Adeola, highlighting the importance of automation and an AI-driven approach to improving customs operations.
Jummai Umar Ajijola, the Managing Director of the Trade Modernization Project, emphasized the partnership between the NCS and the Trade Modernization Project in ensuring the end-to-end automation of Nigeria Customs Service processes and procedures.
The theme of the conference, Embracing the Digital Age: Leveraging Technology, Fostering Innovation, and Nurturing the Next Generation of Customs Professionals, highlighted the importance of technology in customs operations and the continuous development of customs professionals.
In closing, the WCO Secretary General, represented by Hans Pieters, Head of Administration and Personnel WCO, announced that Africa would host the 2024 edition of the WCO Technology Conference and Exhibition in Cairo, Egypt.
The efforts of the NCS to explore advanced technology solutions and their participation in the WCO conference demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to improving trade facilitation and revenue generation. With a focus on automation, AI, and data analytics, Nigeria aims to address complex customs challenges and enhance customs operations for the benefit of the country’s economy.
