By Tony Obiechina, Abuja
Acting Comptroller-General of Customs Wale Adeniyi has assured of his commitment to simplifying trade processes and transform the Nigerian Custom Service (NCS) as a true facilitator of trade in the country.
Adeniyi, who made the pledge while taking over from Col Hameed Ali (Rtd), further assured that he would bring an end all encumbrances experienced during trade.
He said he would work towards simplifying trade processes, adding that encumbrances had impeded effective service delivery in the past.
According to him, Customs under his administration will build on the legacies of his predecessor, who piloted affairs of the service for almost eight years.
“We will build on the solid foundation you have laid for us and consolidate the things we are meeting on ground. We are going to engage very critically with our stakeholders and use innovative technologies to drive everything,” he said.
The Ag CG of NCS said he would discharge his duties with utmost professionalism, fairness, transparency and integrity, declaring that “This is the beginning of a new era in the Nigeria Customs Service.
“This call to duty signifies a great responsibility to serve our nation as a trade facilitator and enforcer of government policies. It demands professionalism, integrity and highest ethical standards,” he said.
The customs boss said the service had over the last seven years embarked on a transformation journey focused on reform, restructuring and revenue generation.
He said he would prioritize efficiency in service delivery, adding that it was the bedrock of trade facilitation and revenue generation.
He further said he would ensure career advancement, staff welfare, technological advancement, and collaboration with other government agencies and relevant stakeholders