CGC Adeniyi Strengthens Global Partnerships as Customs Hosts Diplomatic Reception in Abuja
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reinforced its commitment to international cooperation and trade diplomacy with the hosting of a high-level diplomatic cocktail reception in Abuja, bringing together ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of missions and senior government officials in a strategic effort to deepen bilateral relations and institutional partnerships.
The event, held on Tuesday, 3 June 2026, at the rooftop of the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, attracted an array of distinguished guests, including the Chief of the Air Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, members of the Customs Management team and senior representatives of key security and government institutions.
Speaking at the reception, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, expressed appreciation to members of the diplomatic community and international partners for their continued support in promoting stronger diplomatic ties and advancing global trade cooperation with Nigeria.
He noted that the Service values the contributions of foreign missions and development partners in strengthening bilateral relations and assured them of the NCS’s commitment to providing the necessary support and services to enable diplomatic missions to operate effectively within the country.
“We recognise and appreciate your contributions to strengthening diplomatic and trade relations. The Service remains committed to providing the support and services required for diplomatic missions to operate effectively in Nigeria,” Adeniyi stated.
The Customs boss disclosed that the NCS has continued to expand its international reach through structured collaboration frameworks with more than 20 customs administrations across the world.
According to him, these partnerships are centred on knowledge sharing, capacity development and operational cooperation aimed at enhancing trade facilitation and improving border management.
He emphasised that sustained collaboration among customs administrations, diplomatic missions and security agencies has become increasingly important in addressing contemporary challenges and achieving efficient border security, improved revenue generation and greater economic competitiveness.
Adeniyi further stressed that Customs operations are now conducted within a highly interconnected global environment, making continuous engagement, trust-building and shared responsibility among international partners indispensable in tackling emerging issues relating to trade, security and compliance management.
According to him, initiatives such as the diplomatic reception provide an important platform for dialogue, relationship building and the exploration of new areas of cooperation that will strengthen Nigeria’s trade and diplomatic architecture.
He underscored the importance of fostering closer ties with foreign missions and international organisations, noting that such engagements are essential to promoting mutual understanding and advancing shared interests in an increasingly dynamic global trading system.
The evening concluded with networking sessions and goodwill messages from participants, with diplomatic representatives and senior government officials commending the Nigeria Customs Service for its sustained efforts in promoting international collaboration and building stronger institutional relationships.
The reception further highlighted the Service’s growing role in economic diplomacy and its determination to position Nigeria as a key player in global trade while fostering an enabling environment for stronger partnerships with the international community.
