Customs works with the AfCFTA secretariat to promote trade throughout Africa.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), on Tuesday, announced a partnership with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat to enhance trade facilitation across the African continent.

It also highlighted the stagnant growth of the African trade system at 14-15 percent over the past few years.

Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, while speaking during the meeting with AfCFTA members at the Customs Corporate Headquarters in Abuja, Adeniyi expressed concern over the low trade volume in Africa, stating that the continent currently holds only around 3-4 percent of global trade.

Recognizing the economic benefits of trade, including economic growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation, Adeniyi expressed enthusiasm for the potential of AfCFTA and its objective of creating a Continental Free Trade Area.

He described the Guide Trade Initiative as an important tool for countries to expand their trade markets and emphasized the need for collaboration in verifying goods origin at ports.

CGC Adeniyi further shared that his Administration has implemented measures to improve trade facilitation in Nigeria. 

In the first quarter of the year, they plan to conduct a time-release study in collaboration with other government agencies to streamline processes. 

He also emphasized the importance of data analytics and announced plans to train officers in this field.

In his remarks, the Secretary-General of AfCFTA, Wamkele Mene, congratulated Adeniyi on his appointment and expressed excitement about finding solutions to trade challenges in Africa.

He emphasized the importance of cooperation between AfCFTA and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in addressing trade impediments. 

Mr. Mene expressed optimism that the collaboration between AfCFTA and NCS would significantly enhance trade and revenue generation in various African countries.

The partnership between AfCFTA and NCS aims to streamline customs procedures, reduce trade barriers, and enhance cross-border trade efficiency. It is seen as a crucial step in promoting intra-African trade and economic integration.
He said the visit of the Secretary-General marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to harness Africa’s economic potential through improved trade practices.