Customs deepens capacity building with ICT/Modernisation retreat

BY FUNMI ALUKO

Pursuant to strengthening its capacity growth, the management of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, recently organized a 2-days ICT/Modernisation retreat for its management cadre, attended by the Comptroller General of Customs, CGC, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR.

According to the Customs National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada , the retreat marked a pivotal moment for the CGC’s administration, heralding an era of digital transformation within the Service.

Addressing attendees at the 2-day NCS 2024 ICT—Modernization Management Retreat in Abuja, Adeniyi reiterated his commitment to leveraging technology to streamline customs operations.

This is even as emphasized the importance of engaging stakeholders to ensure the seamless execution of the ambitious project.

Encouraging his Management Team, particularly in the ICT department to champion the digitali

zation efforts, he urged them to harness internal resources to expedite the implementation of the electronic cargo tracking system, including the enforcement system among others.

“In 2024, we cannot afford to remain entrenched in outdated practices. Stakeholders are demanding a Customs Service that embraces technology to enhance efficiency and transparency.

“It is imperative that we modernize every facet of the Customs Enforcement Ecosystem. We must also integrate technology to fortify our operations.”

Welcoming the CGC to the retreat, Chairman of Trade Modernization Project Limited, Alhaji Saleh Ahmadu, lauded the CGC’s resolve in highlighting the pivotal role of trade in national development. He notes that the modernization initiative would revolutionize the NCS’s operations and foster a conducive environment for trade across Nigeria and the African continent.

Also speaking at the flag off of the retreat, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs in charge of ICT/Modernisation, ACG Kikelomo Adeola, highlighted ICT significance in reshaping, digitizing, and modernizing the Service’s activities.

“Welcome to this landmark retreat, where we embark on a journey to recalibrate and modernize the Service, aligning it with international standards”, she stated.

The NCS 2024 ICT-Modernization Management Retreat sets the stage for a transformative era in the Nigeria Customs Service, signaling its readiness to embrace technological advancements in pursuit of operational excellence.