The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has restated its commitment to strengthening international partnerships and improving cross-border trade facilitation as it hosted a diplomatic cocktail reception in Abuja.
The event, held on Tuesday, June 3, 2026, at the rooftop of the NCS Headquarters in Maitama, brought together ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of mission, and senior government officials in a strategic engagement aimed at deepening cooperation on trade, security, and institutional collaboration.
Also in attendance were top security chiefs, including the Chief of the Air Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, as well as senior management of the Customs Service and other key government stakeholders.
In his remarks, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, described the gathering as an important platform for reinforcing diplomatic relations and strengthening Nigeria’s engagement with the global trade community.
He expressed appreciation to diplomatic missions for their continued partnership and support, noting that such relationships remain central to the effectiveness of customs operations and international trade facilitation.
According to him, the NCS has expanded its cooperation framework with more than twenty customs administrations across the world, focusing on intelligence sharing, capacity development, and operational alignment aimed at improving border management systems.
Adeniyi added that in today’s interconnected global economy, customs administrations must work more closely with international partners to address emerging challenges in trade compliance, border security, and revenue optimisation.
He further stressed that sustained dialogue and collaboration among customs authorities, diplomatic missions, and security agencies are essential to achieving efficient border control and enhancing Nigeria’s economic competitiveness.
The Customs boss noted that engagements such as the diplomatic reception provide a rare opportunity for stakeholders to exchange ideas, strengthen institutional trust, and explore new areas of cooperation that support trade growth.
The event concluded with informal networking sessions, where participants commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its consistent efforts in promoting international cooperation and creating a more enabling environment for trade and diplomacy.
