Customs Intensifies Tax Compliance Drive with Training on New Fiscal Reforms
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in collaboration with the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), has commenced a comprehensive training programme aimed at equipping its officers and men with adequate knowledge of the Federal Government’s new tax policies, as part of efforts to strengthen compliance with the country’s evolving fiscal framework.
The two-day capacity-building exercise, which began on Wednesday, 17 June and concluded on Thursday, 18 June 2026, at the Service Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, brought together members of the management team, Comptrollers, Superintendents and officers from other junior cadres.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Finance, Administration and Technical Services, DCG Kikelomo Adeola, said the programme became imperative following recent reforms introduced into Nigeria’s tax administration system.
She emphasised that the Service, given its strategic role in national revenue generation, must remain abreast of changing tax policies and ensure full compliance with its statutory responsibilities.
According to her, the training was designed to provide officers with the knowledge and skills required to effectively navigate the new tax regime while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and accountability.
“As a Service entrusted with a critical role in national revenue generation, we must remain abreast of evolving tax policies and ensure strict compliance with our statutory obligations. This training is designed to equip our officers with the requisite knowledge to navigate the new tax regime effectively and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and accountability,” she said.
DCG Adeola reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to promoting tax compliance, stressing that Customs personnel must remain well-informed on tax-related matters as the agency continues to play a pivotal role in government revenue collection.
She noted that tax compliance goes beyond fulfilling statutory obligations, describing it as a demonstration of transparency, accountability and dedication to national development.
“Tax compliance is not merely a statutory requirement; it is a reflection of our commitment to transparency, accountability, and national development. By investing in the capacity of our personnel, we are positioning the Service to adapt seamlessly to emerging fiscal reforms while sustaining public confidence in our operations,” she added.
Also speaking, the Assistant Director of Tax at the Nigeria Revenue Service, Victoria Udo, underscored the importance of the Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) system, describing it as one of the most dependable mechanisms for the collection of personal income tax.
She explained that compliance with tax obligations provides additional benefits beyond legal requirements, including eligibility for tax clearance certificates and access to other financial opportunities.
Udo urged participants to actively engage during the sessions by asking questions and sharing experiences, noting that a deeper understanding of the newly introduced tax laws would improve efficiency and enhance service delivery.
The training forms part of broader efforts by the Nigeria Customs Service to strengthen institutional capacity and ensure that its workforce is adequately prepared to adapt to ongoing fiscal reforms introduced by the Federal Government.
Observers believe that the initiative will further reinforce the Service’s commitment to transparency, accountability and effective revenue administration, while supporting the government’s drive to enhance tax collection and improve the country’s fiscal sustainability.
