Nigeria Customs to facilitate temporary importation of Military Equipment @ Africa’s First Defence and Security Exhibition

Nigeria Customs to facilitate temporary importation of Military Equipment @  

Africa’s First Defence and Security Exhibition

Bisi Akingbade 

Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has reaffirmed its strong institutional support for Africa’s first-ever comprehensive Defence and Security Exhibition, scheduled to be hosted by Nigeria in 2026, in what is expected to be a landmark event positioning the country as a continental hub for defence innovation, security collaboration, and industrial advancement.

The exhibition, tagged Africa International Defence and Security Exhibition, AFRIDECS, was unveiled during a courtesy visit by the AFRIDECS Steering Committee to the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, 21 January 2026.

The delegation was led by the Director-General of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, DICON, Major General Babatunde Alaya, who disclosed that the 2026 exhibition would convene military institutions, security agencies, government ministries, defence manufacturers and international partners from across the globe.

Major General Alaya explained that AFRIDECS is designed to showcase Nigeria’s indigenous defence manufacturing capacity and technological innovation across land, sea, air, cyber and space domains, while also providing a global platform for the exchange of cutting-edge security solutions.

“AFRIDECS is conceived to showcase indigenous capabilities and manufacturing, while leveraging the expertise and experience of international defence manufacturers. It will serve as a convergence point for defence, security and technology stakeholders to exchange ideas and innovations,” he stated.

He added that the exhibition is strategically positioned to become Africa’s premier defence and security showcase, reflecting Nigeria’s growing influence in defence industrialisation, regional security cooperation and strategic innovation.

According to him, a multi-agency Steering Committee constituted by Defence Headquarters is overseeing the planning and execution of the event.

Representing the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adawale Adeniyi, Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs (DCG), Dera Nnadi reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s readiness to play a critical facilitative and regulatory role in ensuring the success of the exhibition.

DCG Nnadi describes AFRIDECS not only as a security-driven initiative but also as a significant economic, cultural, and diplomatic opportunity for Nigeria.

“This is beyond the security implications. For us in the Nigeria Customs Service, it is an economic opportunity, a cultural gain and a platform to project the best of Nigeria to the international community. Customs will play its role in facilitating legitimate trade while ensuring strict regulatory compliance,” he said.

He assured the Steering Committee of the Service’s commitment to providing seamless Customs processes, particularly in the temporary importation of exhibition equipment, to guarantee ease of entry and exit without compromising national security standards. 

Also speaking, Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs Timi Bomodi, in charge of Enforcement, Inspection and Investigation, commended DICON for initiating what he described as a bold and strategic exhibition with far-reaching implications for national security and economic development.

DCG Bomodi noted that while the Nigeria Customs Service has extensive experience in handling international exhibitions, AFRIDECS is particularly unique due to the sensitive nature of the items involved, which will primarily consist of military hardware and defence equipment.

He explained that Customs would adopt simplified, transparent temporary importation procedures, provided that all regulatory requirements are met. He stressed the importance of advance notification, detailed documentation and the submission of End User Certificates to ensure proper control, accountability and compliance with national and international regulations.

The Africa International Defence and Security Exhibition, the first of its kind on the continent, is expected to further strengthen Nigeria’s image as a leader in defence innovation, deepen international cooperation, unlock economic opportunities, and reinforce the country’s national security architecture, with the Nigeria Customs Service positioned as a key enabler of its success.

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Post-Clearance Audit: WCO, WBG Trains Customs on WCO Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme

Post-Clearance Audit: WCO, WBG Trains Customs on  WCO Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme 

Bisi Akingbade 

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, in collaboration with the World Customs Organisation, WCO, and the World Bank Group, WBG, on Monday, 19 January 2026, commenced the WCO Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen trade facilitation, enhance compliance, and deepen customs modernisation in Nigeria.

The programme is designed to review previously agreed objectives and confirm the strategic approach for implementing key reform initiatives, particularly in the area of Post-Clearance Audit (PCA). The mission provides a platform for assessing progress made so far, while identifying practical steps for improving efficiency, transparency, and risk-based compliance management across customs operations.

Speaking at the opening session, the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs, Kikelomo Adeola, who represented the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, emphasised that Post-Clearance Audit remains a critical pillar of modern customs administration. She noted that an effective PCA framework supports informed risk management, strengthens voluntary compliance and facilitates legitimate trade without compromising revenue assurance.

“This mission underscores the strong partnership between the WCO and the Nigeria Customs Service. It reflects our shared commitment to strengthening PCA frameworks, enhancing officers’ technical competencies and institutionalising best practices that promote voluntary compliance while safeguarding revenue,” she remarked.

Quoting renowned author Brian Herbert, she added; "The capacity to learn is a gift, the ability to learn is a skill, but the willingness to learn is a choice. The Nigeria Customs Service has chosen to make PCA work in our country.”

Also addressing participants, James Clark, a Trade Facilitation Expert with the WCO, commended the NCS for the significant progress achieved within a short period. He observed that Nigeria’s trade facilitation reforms reflect a broader national commitment to improving the ease of doing business and aligning customs procedures with global best practices.

“The creation of the PCA Manual was an impressive piece of work. Beyond that, the steps taken to operationalise it and your commitment to building a world-class PCA programme within the NCS have been remarkable,” he said.

“It is not an easy task to achieve what you have done. There is still more work ahead, but the progress recorded so far has been truly commendable.”

In her remarks, the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Tariff and Trade, Caroline Niagwan, highlighted the deliberate steps taken by the Service in strengthening Post-Clearance Audit and risk management systems. According to her, these measures are aimed at enhancing compliance, improving revenue collection, facilitating legitimate trade, and safeguarding national economic interests.

Similarly, the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Post-Clearance Audit, Babatunde Olomu, described the week-long programme as timely and strategic. He noted that the engagement comes at a critical stage in the Service’s reform journey and will further strengthen institutional capacity in audit-driven compliance and trade facilitation.

The WCO Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme, which runs from 19 to 23 January 2026, underscores the Nigeria Customs Service’s sustained commitment to collaboration with international partners in driving reforms that promote efficient trade, transparency, and economic growth.

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Oyetola Hosts Ambassador of Denmark, Woos Danish Investors to Nigeria’s Blue Economy Sector

Oyetola Hosts Ambassador of Denmark, Woos Danish Investors to Nigeria’s Blue Economy Sector

CAPTION
L-R: Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs. Fatima Sugra Mahmood; Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, CON and the Ambassador of Denmark to Nigeria, Mr Jens Ole Bach Hansen, when the Danish Ambassador visited Minister Oyetola in his office in Abuja on Tuesday.

... Commends APM for strategic contribution to modernisation, Efficiency of Nigeria's Maritime infrastructure 

Bisi Akingbade 

The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, today, Tuesday 20th January 2026, hosted the Ambassador of Denmark to Nigeria, Mr Jens Ole Bach Hansen, in his office in Abuja, using the occasion to strongly court Danish investors to Nigeria’s fast-growing marine and blue economy sector.

Welcoming the Ambassador, Dr Oyetola described Denmark as a valued maritime partner and expressed Nigeria’s readiness to deepen bilateral cooperation in unlocking the enormous opportunities within the marine and blue economy. He assured Danish investors of a favourable investment climate, strong institutional support and promising returns in Nigeria’s maritime sector.

The Minister thanked the Government of Denmark for its support towards Nigeria’s election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council in November 2025, noting that the achievement has further strengthened Nigeria’s standing in global maritime affairs. 

He also commended Danish investment in Nigeria’s port sector through APM Terminals, which operates in the Apapa and Onne Ports, describing it as a strategic contribution to the modernisation and efficiency of Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure.

In the press release issued by the Special Adviser to the Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Bolaji Akinola highlighted that Dr. Oyetola briefed the Ambassador extensively on the Ministry’s ongoing reforms and initiatives aimed at harnessing Nigeria’s marine and blue economy potential. These include the development of a National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, strengthened maritime security that has led to the elimination of piracy in Nigerian waters and a significant reduction of incidents in the Gulf of Guinea, port modernisation programmes, revitalisation of inland waterways, fisheries and aquaculture development, and conservation of marine biodiversity.

He noted that these initiatives are designed to drive sustainable economic growth, create employment, boost trade facilitation and position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in Africa. The Minister reiterated his invitation to Danish investors to take advantage of these opportunities, assuring them of government’s commitment to protecting investments and ensuring long-term sectoral growth.

Speaking earlier, Ambassador Jens Ole Bach Hansen congratulated Nigeria on its election into Category C of the IMO Council, describing it as a recognition of Nigeria’s growing leadership in maritime affairs. He explained that membership of the IMO Council offers Nigeria a strategic platform to influence global maritime policy, contribute to international ocean governance, and participate in key decisions on maritime safety, security and environmental protection.

The Ambassador expressed confidence that Nigeria would bring its experience and regional influence to bear in advancing international maritime cooperation. 

He noted that Denmark and Nigeria share common interests in the marine and blue economy and expressed delight that APM Terminals has invested approximately USD 1.2 billion in Nigerian ports, with plans to make further investments to expand its operations.

He also highlighted Denmark’s global expertise in wind energy and green maritime technologies, stating that his country is open to sharing knowledge and experience with the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in renewable energy and other sustainable maritime solutions. He affirmed Denmark’s readiness to explore broader collaboration with Nigeria in developing its marine and blue economy sector.

Both parties agreed to sustain engagement and work together to identify further areas of partnership, investment and technical cooperation in advancing Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy agenda.

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Comptroller Matawale Emphasises Discipline, Integrity, Professionalism @ Kebbi Area Command 1st 2026 Parade

Comptroller Matawale Emphasises Discipline, Integrity, Professionalism @ Kebbi Area Command 1st 2026 Parade 

Bisi Akingbade 

The Kebbi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has convened its first parade of the 2026 operational year, bringing together officers and men of the Command in a ceremony that combined solemn remembrance, renewed commitment to national duty and a comprehensive health screening for all personnel.

Comptroller Ibrahim MM MNIM, fdc extended New Year wishes to officers and their families, and paid tribute to fallen colleagues who lost their lives in service, offering prayers for their souls and comfort for their families.

In his address, he  expressed deep appreciation to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, PhD, Chairperson of the World Customs Organization, WCO, Council, for his visionary leadership, unwavering support, and dedication to the welfare of officers across the nation.

He noted that the CGC’s commitment to professionalism, innovation, and discipline continues to inspire the Service to new heights of excellence.

Comptroller Matawalle emphasized that the parade was more than a routine gathering, it was a moment of reflection, recommitment, and renewed dedication to the Service’s core mandate; securing Nigeria’s borders, protecting the national economy, preventing smuggling and economic sabotage and facilitating legitimate trade and revenue generation. He urged all officers to embody loyalty, vigilance, and excellence in their duties.

He charged officers to uphold the 7Cs of the Nigeria Customs Service Courtesy without loss of dignity, Clear questions, Careful examination, Clean hands in all respects, Command attention, Control situations, and Consult colleagues. These principles, he stressed, are essential guides for conduct at border posts, in the field, and within the Command.

Discipline was highlighted as the bedrock of the Service. The CAC made clear that negligence or any betrayal of trust would not be tolerated while dedication, loyalty, and excellence would be recognized and rewarded. He reminded officers that each is an ambassador of the NCS, and their conduct reflects on the Service’s reputation in both public and private life.

The Command is located  on critical international borders with Niger and Benin Republics, Kebbi Area Command plays a frontline role in combating smuggling and illegal trade.

Comptroller Matawalle expressed concern over prevailing security challenges within the border corridors and charged officers to remain vigilant, proactive, and security-conscious at all times. He emphasized the need for improved intelligence gathering, strict adherence to operational procedures, and strengthened collaboration with sister security agencies, host communities, and other stakeholders to effectively tackle insecurity.

The Command also reaffirmed its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR, initiatives, including the construction of boreholes and the supply and installation of solar-powered street lights in border communities. These efforts aim to foster goodwill, improve living conditions, and enhance security in the region.

As part of the parade, a comprehensive health check was carried out for all officers, underscoring the Command’s commitment to the well-being of its personnel. Recognizing that _health is wealth_, the leadership prioritized this exercise to ensure that every officer is physically fit, mentally alert, and prepared to perform their duties with maximum effectiveness.

Comptroller Ibrahim noted that a healthy force is a strong force, capable of safeguarding borders, combating smuggling, and facilitating trade with vigor and precision. The initiative reinforces the Service’s dedication to maintaining a resilient, disciplined, and high-performing team.

The Kebbi Area Command reaffirmed its commitment to discipline, professionalism, and the 7Cs, standing united as a frontline force protecting Nigeria’s borders and economy. By prioritizing the health and readiness of its officers, and by engaging in meaningful community development, the Command ensures it remains prepared to fulfill the Nigeria Customs Service’s mission with excellence and honor, under the inspiring leadership of CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, PhD.

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Oyetola Inaugurates Nigerian Shippers’ Council Governing Board

Oyetola Inaugurates Nigerian Shippers’ Council Governing Board

*CAPTION* 

Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, CON (seventh from left); Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs. Fatima Sugra Mahmood (fifth from left); Chairman, Nigerian Shippers’ Council Governing Board, Dr Ibrahim Shehu Shema (fourth from right); Executive Secretary/CEO of Nigerian Shippers' Council, Dr Pius Akuta (third from right) and other Board Members of the Nigerian Shippers' Council at the inauguration of the NSC Governing Board in Abuja, on Monday.

Bisi Akingbade 

The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, today, Monday 19th January 2026, formally inaugurated the Governing Board of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. 

The inauguration ceremony was held at the Honourable Minister’s Conference Room at the Ministry in Abuja. 

In his address at the event, Dr Oyetola described the inauguration as a significant milestone in strengthening institutional governance and accountability within Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy sector. He stated that the constitution of the Board, approved by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in furtherance of the Renewed Hope Agenda, underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to good governance, institutional effectiveness, and the strategic repositioning of the maritime sector as a catalyst for national economic transformation.

The Minister emphasised that the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, as the designated Port Economic Regulator, occupies a critical position in promoting efficiency, fairness, and transparency in port pricing, charges, and service delivery. He noted that effective regulation remains essential to reducing the cost of doing business at Nigerian ports, facilitating trade, protecting the interests of shippers, and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and global commerce.

Dr Oyetola charged members of the newly inaugurated Board to provide strategic direction, policy guidance, and vigilant oversight in line with statutory provisions and government policies. He urged the Board to work harmoniously with the Management of the Council, uphold professionalism, and ensure that every meeting and decision delivers measurable outcomes in trade facilitation, cost reduction, and sectoral competitiveness. 

He further assured the Board of the Ministry’s full support and collaboration, calling on members to justify the confidence reposed in them by the President and through integrity, discipline, and demonstrable results.

The Governing Board of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council is chaired by Dr Ibrahim Shehu Shema, former Governor of Katsina State. Other members include Dr Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Council; Dr Emi Membere-Otaji, representative of the Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA); Mr John Aluya, representative of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN); Rt Hon Chiji Collins; Mrs Olufunmilayo Olaseinde; Dr Funmilola Rashidat Adeoti; Alhaji Mele Kofo Gladem; Mrs Hafsatu Mohammed, representative of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL); Hon Maharazu Adamu Dayi; and Mrs Uzoamaka Okereke, representative of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

Responding on behalf of the Board, the Chairman, Dr Ibrahim Shehu Shema, expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve the nation in such a strategic capacity. He also thanked the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy for the confidence reposed in the Board and for his visionary leadership in repositioning the sector. 

Shema assured that the Board would discharge its responsibilities with dedication, professionalism, and integrity, and pledged its commitment to providing effective oversight, strengthening regulatory efficiency, and supporting initiatives that will enhance port performance, improve trade facilitation, and advance the national economic agenda. 

He further assured that the Board would work in close collaboration with the Ministry and the Management of the Council to deliver tangible and sustainable results for Nigerian shippers and the wider economy.

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council is the designated Port Economic Regulator responsible for promoting efficiency, transparency, competitiveness, and fairness in port operations and service delivery, while protecting the interests of shippers and improving Nigeria’s maritime trade environment. 

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"Your tenure as Comptroller-General has been defined by strategic foresight, institutional discipline and an unwavering commitment to national service,” Dr. Afolabi

"Your tenure as Comptroller-General has been defined by strategic foresight, institutional discipline and an unwavering commitment to national service,” Dr. Afolabi 

 Bisi Akingbade 

The Chairman, SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, CON, has extended warm 60th  birthday felicitations to the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, commending his exemplary leadership and far-reaching contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth and global trade standing.

In a goodwill message issued on behalf of the Board, Management and Staff of SIFAX Group,  Afolabi described Adeniyi as a transformational leader whose tenure has brought renewed professionalism, efficiency and credibility to the Nigeria Customs Service.

According to him, Adeniyi’s leadership has been instrumental in driving significant reforms across customs operations, leading to sustained revenue growth, improved trade facilitation, enhanced border security and accelerated digital transformation within the Service.

“Your tenure as Comptroller-General has been defined by strategic foresight, institutional discipline and an unwavering commitment to national service,” Dr. Afolabi stated. “These achievements have not only strengthened Nigeria’s trade ecosystem but have also positively impacted the ease of doing business for stakeholders across the maritime, aviation and logistics sectors.”

He noted that the milestone reflects Adeniyi’s competence, integrity and global outlook, adding that it is a source of pride for Nigeria and inspiration for public service leadership across Africa.

As the Chairman of a leading pan-African conglomerate with interests in maritime, aviation, logistics, oil and gas and hospitality,  Afolabi affirmed that SIFAX Group deeply appreciates the Comptroller-General’s stakeholder-focused approach and his commitment to collaboration in building a more efficient, transparent and globally competitive customs system.

Dr. Afolabi concluded by praying for continued good health, wisdom and strength for Adeniyi as he consolidates ongoing reforms and attains greater milestones in service to Nigeria and the international community.

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President Tinubu Hails CG Adeniyi @ 60

President Tinubu Hails CG Adeniyi @ 60 

... Commends Adeniyi landmark Reforms, , Recognition as WCO Chairman 

 

Bisi Akingbade 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Comptroller-General of Customs , CGC, Comptroller Bashir Adewale Adeniyi on his 60th birthday with the milestone heralded by dedicated service to the nation, and landmark reforms since he assumed leadership that have repositioned the organization. 

The Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga stated this in a press statement made available for journalists that 

President Tinubu noted the efforts of Dr Adeniyi to graduate the NCS into a globally competitive, and relevant institution, resulting in the remarkable recognition and election of the Comptroller-General as Chairman of the World Customs Organization, WCO, in June, 2025. 

The President commends the Comptroller-General for projecting Nigeria and Africa on the global stage by providing inclusive, practical and charismatic leadership at the WCO and rallying of Customs Administrations and critical stakeholders for implementation of the AFCTA through C-PACT platform. 

President Tinubu notes the integration of the Authorized Economic Operator Programme in Nigeria, supported by the WCO, to improve cargo clearance times at ports, improve revenue performance and strengthen partnership with traders, and the adoption of WCO SAFE Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade. 

The President affirms that the internal reforms, evidenced by streamlining of operations through automation and digitization, upskilling and training of officers, high level diplomacy and adoption of global best practices have resulted in commendable changes in trade facilitation and revenue collections. 

President Tinubu acknowledges the visionary leadership of the Customs boss that has resulted in better community relations, steady surpassing of revenue targets, enhanced trade partnership with countries and multilateral institutions, and improved security around the borders. 

 As the Customs boss turns 60, the President prays that the Almighty God will grant him more strength, good health and wisdom to keep serving the nation. 

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