Nigeria Customs Service Enhances Trade with New SOPs

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to enhance the business environment by addressing corruption vulnerabilities in its operations. This initiative is a collaboration with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) and the United Kingdom International Development, aimed at strengthening the NCS's internal anti-corruption framework.

Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, stated that the exercise focuses on corruption risk analysis and mapping to improve the predictability of Customs processes, reduce unnecessary discretion, and strengthen internal controls in cargo clearance and other operations. The assessment covered various areas, including regulatory procedures and human resource management.

Adeniyi emphasized that the initiative is about identifying weaknesses and establishing sustainable solutions rather than fault-finding. The outcomes include a comprehensive action plan to advance trade facilitation and strengthen anti-corruption efforts.

WCO officials, Arman Zhalitov and David Tanenbaum, commended the NCS for its leadership and noted progress in areas such as Authorised Economic Operator and post-clearance audits.