Customs, American Business Council Forge Pact to Boost Trade Facilitation

ZAINAB JUNAID

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and American Business Council (ABC) have forged a formidable alliance to deepen structured engagement aimed at boosting trade facilitation and strengthening investor confidence.

This development followed a courtesy visit by the ABC delegation to the Comptroller General of Customs, CGC Adewale Adeniyi MFR at the Customs House, Maitama, Abuja on Wednesday, 10 December 2025.

During their engagement, the CGC noted that the Service has, in recent years, made deliberate efforts to institutionalise transparency, stakeholder consultation and regular engagement with industry players.

“No modern Customs administration can thrive without meaningful dialogue with the people who drive business across our ports and borders,” he said.

Adeniyi stated that the Service has prioritised reforms that enhance predictability for traders, including the deployment of the One-Stop-Shop initiative across major Commands to streamline processes and reduce delays during cargo examination and documentation.

While responding to concerns raised by ABC member companies, the CGC assured the delegation that Customs will continue to address operational challenges within its mandate.

He emphasised that trade facilitation remains a shared responsibility among multiple agencies and underscored the importance of sustained dialogue to resolve issues as they arise.

Earlier, Chief Executive Officer of the American Business Council, Margaret Olele, informed that the visit was aimed at strengthening ties with the Nigeria Customs Service.

She acknowledged that there have been clear improvements in port processes, communication channels and the ease of resolving trade-related enquiries.

According to the CEO, many American companies operating in Nigeria have reported improved clarity in Customs procedures over the past year.

“Predictability and transparency are essential for businesses. We are encouraged by the modernisation steps taken under the legal framework of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, and we look forward to deepening this partnership to address remaining concerns”.

Olele also appreciated the CGC for personally receiving the delegation, noting that his presence demonstrated the Service’s commitment to partnership.

She stressed that enhanced cooperation between Customs and the private sector will significantly strengthen Nigeria’s investment climate.

Both sides later agreed to hold quarterly engagement sessions to review progress, address emerging issues and keep communication channels open for American companies operating in the country.

Representatives from ExxonMobil, Chevron, Cisco, Mantrac, U.S. Embassy among others participated in the meeting.