…CGC Adeniyi Says Deal to Boost Border Security and Trade Transparency
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have signed a historic bilateral agreement on customs cooperation and mutual assistance, marking a significant milestone in international customs diplomacy.
The signing took place on Thursday, 26th June 2025, on the sidelines of the 145th/146th Sessions of the Customs Co-operation Council at the World Customs Organization (WCO) headquarters in Brussels, Belgium.
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, signed on behalf of Nigeria, while Governor Suhail bin Mohammed Abanmi represented the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Speaking after the signing, CGC Adeniyi described the agreement as “a major leap” in Nigeria’s strategic customs diplomacy and a clear demonstration of the NCS's commitment to fostering global partnerships for effective border security and trade facilitation.
“This agreement provides a strong platform for operational synergy in tackling customs offences, sharing intelligence, and ensuring the fair application of customs laws,” he said. “It aligns with our broader goals of modernising customs, promoting transparency, and deepening Nigeria’s integration into the global trade ecosystem.”
The agreement outlines a framework for mutual administrative assistance, including cooperation in enforcement, classification, valuation, revenue protection, and coordinated border management. It draws from internationally recognised protocols, particularly the WCO Recommendation on Mutual Administrative Assistance (1953), to which both nations are signatories.
Adeniyi emphasised that the partnership extends beyond enforcement, describing it as a step toward innovation and trust in customs administration.
“Nigeria is proud to join hands with Saudi Arabia in advancing a future where customs operations are smarter, faster, and more cooperative,” he added.
Governor Abanmi welcomed the collaboration, calling it a reflection of shared values in customs efficiency and trade facilitation.
“Saudi Arabia welcomes this partnership with Nigeria. Our customs administrations face similar challenges, and through this agreement, we aim to share knowledge, strengthen enforcement, and protect our economies from illicit trade,” he said.
The agreement, which is open-ended, provides for joint investigations, information exchange, and enforcement of prohibitions and restrictions according to the laws of both countries. It also includes provisions for amendment and termination through diplomatic channels.
The new pact is expected to boost Nigeria’s trade credentials and reinforce regional and global customs partnerships for economic growth and security.
