By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has taken fresh steps to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and strengthen trade relations between Nigeria and the United States following a high-level engagement with the American Business Council (ABC) in Lagos.
The strategic meeting, held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, brought together senior Customs officials led by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, executives of American firms operating in Nigeria, and key industry stakeholders.
Discussions centred on trade facilitation, regulatory reforms, dispute resolution mechanisms, and policy initiatives aimed at improving Nigeria’s investment climate.
Addressing participants at the forum, the Comptroller-General described stakeholder engagement as a cornerstone of modern customs administration, stressing that sustained dialogue with the private sector has proven instrumental in resolving complex operational challenges.
He cited the recent settlement of a seven-year tariff classification dispute involving a member of the Council as evidence of the Service’s commitment to constructive engagement and practical problem-solving.
“Stakeholder engagement is one of the major pillars of any modern Customs administration. When we address issues in a mutually beneficial manner, everybody becomes a winner,” Adeniyi stated.
As part of ongoing reforms, the Customs boss announced the introduction of a unified dispute resolution mechanism designed to simplify procedures, minimise delays, and reduce the financial burden associated with trade-related conflicts. He reaffirmed the Service’s dedication to transparency, institutional modernisation, and the creation of a business-friendly environment capable of attracting increased foreign direct investment.
According to him, the engagement aligns with the broader strategy of the NCS to deepen partnerships with international business communities while strengthening trade facilitation and supporting economic growth.
In her remarks, the Executive Secretary of the American Business Council, Margaret Olele, commended the Customs Service for sustaining open communication channels and demonstrating responsiveness to private sector concerns.
She noted that recent engagements have yielded tangible outcomes, including the resolution of long-standing issues affecting Council members.
“While not every concern can be resolved immediately, sustained dialogue helps balance national interests with the need for an efficient and predictable business environment,” Olele said.
The meeting underscores renewed efforts by the Nigeria Customs Service to enhance investor confidence and reinforce Nigeria’s position as a competitive destination for global trade and investment.
