Nigeria Customs Reaffirms Commitment to Inter-Agency Cooperation Following Incident at Lagos Airport

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening inter-agency cooperation following an incident at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Cargo (MMAC) NAHCO Shed on 6 March 2025.

The incident, which arose from a miscommunication regarding equipment movement and seating arrangements, led to a disagreement between officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and officers of the NCS.

In a statement issued by the Assistant Comptroller of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, on 8 March 2025, the NCS underscored its unwavering dedication to fostering a collaborative working environment in line with the World Customs Organisation’s (WCO) Safe Framework of Standards.

This framework promotes cooperation between Customs and other government agencies (OGA), Customs-to-Customs relations, and Customs-to-business engagements as part of efforts to enhance trade facilitation, ensure regulatory compliance, and support national economic growth.

“The Nigeria Customs Service remains resolute in engaging constructively with all relevant stakeholders to strengthen operational protocols and uphold the collective national interest,” the statement read.

The NCS also highlighted that the NAHCO and SAHCO Import & Export Warehouses are licensed Customs Bonded Warehouses operating in full compliance with Section 122 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

The Service further emphasised that, as stipulated in Section 127 of the Act, these warehouses remain under the direct control of the NCS.

Under the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, the Service reiterated its commitment to ensuring the smooth operation of Customs-controlled areas to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The statement called on all stakeholders to prioritise cooperation, adhere to due process, and maintain mutual respect to sustain a conducive environment for economic growth and seamless cargo operations.

“The Nigeria Customs Service remains focused on its mandate to facilitate trade, enforce regulatory compliance, and safeguard national security. We urge all stakeholders to work together to maintain harmony and operational efficiency,” the statement concluded.