Tinubu backs Nigerian firm's 20-year African customs modernisation deal

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has endorsed the appointment of AfriTrade CMP Limited, a subsidiary of Nigerian-based Bergmans Security Consultant and Supplies Limited, to oversee a two-decade customs modernisation initiative across participating African countries. The project represents a significant continental infrastructure undertaking valued at multiple billions of dollars.

Through the arrangement, the firm will deploy both digital technology and physical infrastructure to streamline customs operations, enhance cargo tracking systems, improve border management procedures, and facilitate trade data sharing among African nations participating in the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement. Tinubu's backing underscores what the government frames as Nigeria's capacity to develop and export solutions tailored to African market needs rather than importing foreign models.

The AfCFTA Secretary-General, Wamkele Mene, visited Nigeria in connection with the agreement and toured the Nigeria Customs Service headquarters to observe the B'Odogwu system and related programmes already operational within Nigeria. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga released a statement in Tinubu's name emphasizing the development as validation of Nigeria's technical capabilities on a continental scale.

The contract spans 20 years and involves another Bergmans subsidiary alongside AfriTrade CMP Limited in its execution. The modernisation project aims to reduce friction in cross-border trade by accelerating customs clearance processes and lowering associated costs for businesses operating across African borders participating in the free trade arrangement.