Adeniyi: Resolving Years of Clamour for Career Officer as Customs CG
Adeniyi
By Francis Ugwoke
For the stakeholders in the nation’s maritime industry, it was indeed prayer answered following the appointment of Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi psc (+), MFR as the Acting Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). For 8 years that former Comptroller-General, Alhaji Inde Dikko left office as a career officer, importers and customs agents have not been happy for having a retired military officer in the name of Hameed Ali as Customs Comptroller-General. It was not that they hated Ali, but on principle that a customs officer from the Service should be the CG. They continued to call on the federal government to ensure that the next appointment of a new Comptroller General should come from a serving career officer. The reason is obvious. A career officer who has been part of the system will not distort anything but will follow or improve on laid down procedures that will facilitate trade.
It was therefore celebration for the stakeholders following the announcement by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointing Adeniyi as the Acting CG. To the stakeholders, it was indeed a dream come true. Adeniyi’s appointment has received overwhelming support from key stakeholders including the former President of Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Alhaji Olayiwola Shittu, Founder of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, former NAGAFF President, Dr. Eugene Nweke, President of ANLCA, Iju Tony Nwabunike, his Vice President, Dr. Kayode Farinto, who have separately welcomed Adeniyi to the new throne. To the industry top icons, Adeniyi’s appointment is well deserved because of his enormous wealth of experience in the Service. It has indeed been celebration time coming from these top professionals.
However, Nweke, who is currently of the Sea Empowerment and Research Centre in Lagos,
recalled that the tenure of the former CG, Ali, was one that concentrated on high revenue generation which inflicted economic pains to Nigerians. In what looks like cautioning Adeniyi on this path, Nweke argues that “higher revenue without recourse to the impact analysis on the overall economic well-being of the citizens and trading community” was not the best because of the consequences. Nweke condemned the past administration under Ali for resorting to concessioning of its modernization processes to a foreign firm under a joint venture window.
Nweke added: “ without mincing words, the larger stakeholders considered the step as a deliberate and ambitious intent reordering or reinventing of another repackaged and reintroduction of the cargo pre shipment inspection arrangements for a 25years contract period . The question is, where are the officers that developed the PAAR concept? Where are the officers trained in India as noted in item 4 above? Does it mean that the ICT Officer of the Service lacks the technical no-how to further improve on the existing platform committedly?
“Here again, this ambitious e-custom modernization concession project, seems to have whittled down any other feasible achievement recorded by the immediate past Customs administration with reference to its policy thrust”.
However, Adeniyi in his speech while taking over the mantle of leadership from Ali promised to dismantle obstacles, foster new culture in trade facilitation.
He promised to “prioritize efficiency in service delivery as the bedrock of trade facilitation and revenue generation”, adding that every effort would be made to ensure that no encumbrances shall impede trade.
He said, “ we shall dismantle obstacles and foster a new culture of consultations and compliance.
Part of his speech reads:
“ Today, we gather here to mark the beginning of a new era in the Nigeria Customs Service. I stand before you as the newly appointed Comptroller General, humbled and honoured by the trust placed in me by our esteemed President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. This call to duty signifies a great responsibility, a responsibility to serve our nation as trade facilitators and enforcers of government policy. It is a delicate balancing act that demands professionalism, integrity, and the highest ethical standards.
“ Over the past eight years, the Nigeria Customs Service has embarked on a journey of transformation, focused on reforms, restructuring, and revenue generation. We have witnessed critical adjustments to meet the evolving needs and strategic objectives of our Service. As beneficiaries and ambassadors of these reforms, many of us have played pivotal roles in training, retraining, and mentoring the future generation of Customs officers.
“ Today, we stand at the precipice of an exciting future, one that builds upon the achievements of the past and takes us even further. Our administration is committed to adopting a bottom-up approach, where the needs of our dear nation take precedence over everything else. We will prioritize efficiency in service delivery as the bedrock of trade facilitation and revenue generation. No longer shall encumbrances impede trade; we shall dismantle obstacles and foster a new culture of consultations and compliance.
“ In order to achieve our objectives, it is imperative that we bridge the current human resource gap within our ranks. We recognize the importance of capacity building and career advancement for our officers. The administration will work diligently to implement career advancement opportunities approved by the board, ensuring that competence remains the sole criterion for assigning responsibilities and measuring effectiveness. Our focus is on cultivating a highly skilled workforce that is equipped to face the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
“ As we embark on this new journey, we recognize the need for collaboration and partnerships. We value the relationships we have built with our Partner Government Agencies and the private sector. These collaborations have been vital to our adoption of technology as a tool to enhance revenue generation and streamline processes. We will strengthen these partnerships and engage with stakeholders through revitalized platforms. By promoting dialogue, we can resolve disputes and advance mutually beneficial solutions that lead to more efficient and effective service. The Nigeria Customs Service will continue to treat its esteemed stakeholders as partners who have a stake in our success.
“ Furthermore, this administration is firmly committed to fairness. We shall treat all stakeholders, traders, and officers alike with impartiality and respect. Our decisions and actions will be guided by principles of transparency and discipline. We understand that our conduct shapes the public’s perception of the Service, and we will strive to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical behaviour. Indiscipline will not be tolerated as we prioritize fairness and equity.
“ My predecessor had taken significant steps towards Customs Modernization, and it is our duty to build on those gains. Staff welfare and capacity building have been revolutionized under the previous administration, with the provision of decent packages and the introduction of staff courses. This administration will build upon those gains to ensure the continuous growth and development of our workforce. All these efforts will be channelled towards ensuring that the real potentials of the Service are achieved.
“ It is crucial for us to recognize the modern realities and challenges to Customs operations. In today’s interconnected and technologically advanced world, we face emerging threats that require our utmost attention. E-commerce, global supply chains, and transnational criminal networks pose challenges to our role as custodians of trade facilitation and enforcement. We must adapt to these changing landscapes, leveraging technology, intelligence-led operations, and effective risk management strategies. Collaboration with international partners, law enforcement agencies, and customs administrations of other nations will be vital in combating illicit trade and securing our national interests.
“ Before I conclude, I want to acknowledge a significant milestone in our journey towards Customs modernization. Recently, the Nigeria Customs Service witnessed a remarkable achievement with the signing of the new Customs Act. This act marks a pivotal moment in our efforts to enhance trade facilitation, streamline procedures, and strengthen enforcement measures.
“ The new Customs Act provides us with a robust legal framework that aligns with international best practices, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and compliance in our operations. It empowers us to effectively tackle emerging challenges, adapt to evolving trade dynamics, and safeguard our national interests. Under this act, we have the opportunity to introduce innovative measures that will further enhance our customs processes, such as the implementation of advanced risk management systems, the integration of cutting-edge technologies, and the simplification of trade procedures. These advancements will not only boost our revenue generation capabilities but also promote a conducive business environment that attracts investments and spurs economic growth.
“ I assure you that we are fully committed to the successful implementation of the new Customs Act. We will work diligently to familiarize our officers and stakeholders with its provisions, ensuring its effective application across all our operations. Through comprehensive training programs and continuous engagement, we will create awareness and understanding of the act’s importance in achieving our shared goals.
“ As we embrace this new era under the Customs Act, we must remember that its success relies on our collective efforts. I call upon all officers, personnel, stakeholders, and the public to embrace the spirit of compliance, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Together, we can unlock the full potential of our customs service and contribute to the prosperity of our beloved nation”.
For the stakeholders in the nation’s maritime industry, it was indeed prayer answered following the appointment of Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi psc (+), MFR as the Acting Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). For 8 years that former Comptroller-General, Alhaji Inde Dikko left office as a career officer, importers and customs agents have not been happy for having a retired military officer in the name of Hameed Ali as Customs Comptroller-General. It was not that they hated Ali, but on principle that a customs officer from the Service should be the CG. They continued to call on the federal government to ensure that the next appointment of a new Comptroller General should come from a serving career officer. The reason is obvious. A career officer who has been part of the system will not distort anything but will follow or improve on laid down procedures that will facilitate trade.
It was therefore celebration for the stakeholders following the announcement by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointing Adeniyi as the Acting CG. To the stakeholders, it was indeed a dream come true. Adeniyi’s appointment has received overwhelming support from key stakeholders including the former President of Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Alhaji Olayiwola Shittu, Founder of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, former NAGAFF President, Dr. Eugene Nweke, President of ANLCA, Iju Tony Nwabunike, his Vice President, Dr. Kayode Farinto, who have separately welcomed Adeniyi to the new throne. To the industry top icons, Adeniyi’s appointment is well deserved because of his enormous wealth of experience in the Service. It has indeed been celebration time coming from these top professionals.
However, Nweke, who is currently of the Sea Empowerment and Research Centre in Lagos,
recalled that the tenure of the former CG, Ali, was one that concentrated on high revenue generation which inflicted economic pains to Nigerians. In what looks like cautioning Adeniyi on this path, Nweke argues that “higher revenue without recourse to the impact analysis on the overall economic well-being of the citizens and trading community” was not the best because of the consequences. Nweke condemned the past administration under Ali for resorting to concessioning of its modernization processes to a foreign firm under a joint venture window.
Nweke added: “ without mincing words, the larger stakeholders considered the step as a deliberate and ambitious intent reordering or reinventing of another repackaged and reintroduction of the cargo pre shipment inspection arrangements for a 25years contract period . The question is, where are the officers that developed the PAAR concept? Where are the officers trained in India as noted in item 4 above? Does it mean that the ICT Officer of the Service lacks the technical no-how to further improve on the existing platform committedly?
“Here again, this ambitious e-custom modernization concession project, seems to have whittled down any other feasible achievement recorded by the immediate past Customs administration with reference to its policy thrust”.
However, Adeniyi in his speech while taking over the mantle of leadership from Ali promised to dismantle obstacles, foster new culture in trade facilitation.
He promised to “prioritize efficiency in service delivery as the bedrock of trade facilitation and revenue generation”, adding that every effort would be made to ensure that no encumbrances shall impede trade.
He said, “ we shall dismantle obstacles and foster a new culture of consultations and compliance.
Part of his speech reads:
“ Today, we gather here to mark the beginning of a new era in the Nigeria Customs Service. I stand before you as the newly appointed Comptroller General, humbled and honoured by the trust placed in me by our esteemed President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. This call to duty signifies a great responsibility, a responsibility to serve our nation as trade facilitators and enforcers of government policy. It is a delicate balancing act that demands professionalism, integrity, and the highest ethical standards.
“ Over the past eight years, the Nigeria Customs Service has embarked on a journey of transformation, focused on reforms, restructuring, and revenue generation. We have witnessed critical adjustments to meet the evolving needs and strategic objectives of our Service. As beneficiaries and ambassadors of these reforms, many of us have played pivotal roles in training, retraining, and mentoring the future generation of Customs officers.
“ Today, we stand at the precipice of an exciting future, one that builds upon the achievements of the past and takes us even further. Our administration is committed to adopting a bottom-up approach, where the needs of our dear nation take precedence over everything else. We will prioritize efficiency in service delivery as the bedrock of trade facilitation and revenue generation. No longer shall encumbrances impede trade; we shall dismantle obstacles and foster a new culture of consultations and compliance.
“ In order to achieve our objectives, it is imperative that we bridge the current human resource gap within our ranks. We recognize the importance of capacity building and career advancement for our officers. The administration will work diligently to implement career advancement opportunities approved by the board, ensuring that competence remains the sole criterion for assigning responsibilities and measuring effectiveness. Our focus is on cultivating a highly skilled workforce that is equipped to face the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
“ As we embark on this new journey, we recognize the need for collaboration and partnerships. We value the relationships we have built with our Partner Government Agencies and the private sector. These collaborations have been vital to our adoption of technology as a tool to enhance revenue generation and streamline processes. We will strengthen these partnerships and engage with stakeholders through revitalized platforms. By promoting dialogue, we can resolve disputes and advance mutually beneficial solutions that lead to more efficient and effective service. The Nigeria Customs Service will continue to treat its esteemed stakeholders as partners who have a stake in our success.
“ Furthermore, this administration is firmly committed to fairness. We shall treat all stakeholders, traders, and officers alike with impartiality and respect. Our decisions and actions will be guided by principles of transparency and discipline. We understand that our conduct shapes the public’s perception of the Service, and we will strive to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical behaviour. Indiscipline will not be tolerated as we prioritize fairness and equity.
“ My predecessor had taken significant steps towards Customs Modernization, and it is our duty to build on those gains. Staff welfare and capacity building have been revolutionized under the previous administration, with the provision of decent packages and the introduction of staff courses. This administration will build upon those gains to ensure the continuous growth and development of our workforce. All these efforts will be channelled towards ensuring that the real potentials of the Service are achieved.
“ It is crucial for us to recognize the modern realities and challenges to Customs operations. In today’s interconnected and technologically advanced world, we face emerging threats that require our utmost attention. E-commerce, global supply chains, and transnational criminal networks pose challenges to our role as custodians of trade facilitation and enforcement. We must adapt to these changing landscapes, leveraging technology, intelligence-led operations, and effective risk management strategies. Collaboration with international partners, law enforcement agencies, and customs administrations of other nations will be vital in combating illicit trade and securing our national interests.
“ Before I conclude, I want to acknowledge a significant milestone in our journey towards Customs modernization. Recently, the Nigeria Customs Service witnessed a remarkable achievement with the signing of the new Customs Act. This act marks a pivotal moment in our efforts to enhance trade facilitation, streamline procedures, and strengthen enforcement measures.
“ The new Customs Act provides us with a robust legal framework that aligns with international best practices, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and compliance in our operations. It empowers us to effectively tackle emerging challenges, adapt to evolving trade dynamics, and safeguard our national interests. Under this act, we have the opportunity to introduce innovative measures that will further enhance our customs processes, such as the implementation of advanced risk management systems, the integration of cutting-edge technologies, and the simplification of trade procedures. These advancements will not only boost our revenue generation capabilities but also promote a conducive business environment that attracts investments and spurs economic growth.
“ I assure you that we are fully committed to the successful implementation of the new Customs Act. We will work diligently to familiarize our officers and stakeholders with its provisions, ensuring its effective application across all our operations. Through comprehensive training programs and continuous engagement, we will create awareness and understanding of the act’s importance in achieving our shared goals.
“ As we embrace this new era under the Customs Act, we must remember that its success relies on our collective efforts. I call upon all officers, personnel, stakeholders, and the public to embrace the spirit of compliance, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Together, we can unlock the full potential of our customs service and contribute to the prosperity of our beloved nation”.
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