Customs, Nigerian Economic Society Forge Stronger Partnership to Drive National Growth
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigerian Economic Society (NES) have reaffirmed their commitment to closer collaboration in advancing Nigeria’s economic development, ahead of the Society’s Annual Conference scheduled for 8–11 September 2025 in Abuja.
The renewed partnership was underscored during a courtesy visit by the NES leadership to the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Mr Adewale Adeniyi, at the Service’s headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, 13 August 2025.
Led by the National President, Professor Adeola Adenikinju, the NES delegation included members of the Governing Council and the Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter. Discussions focused on strengthening synergies between economic research and Customs’ operational frameworks to promote efficiency and growth.
In his remarks, Mr Adeniyi stressed the critical need for greater cooperation, stating: “While the NES provides evidence-based economic research and policy recommendations, the NCS plays a pivotal role in trade facilitation, revenue generation, and the enforcement of fiscal policies that directly shape the economy.”
He noted that aligning the Society’s policy recommendations with Customs’ practical realities at the nation’s borders would not only enhance Nigeria’s trade competitiveness but also ensure that economic policies deliver measurable results.
Professor Adenikinju, while formally inviting the CGC to the forthcoming annual conference, acknowledged the significant role Customs plays in national development.
He explained that the Service’s access to vital data on trade patterns, revenue flows, and cross-border economic activity makes it an indispensable partner in shaping sustainable economic policies.
The NES President further announced Mr Adeniyi’s nomination for the 2025 Distinguished Public Service Award (DPSNES), one of the Society’s most prestigious honours.
The nomination recognises the Customs chief’s leadership in modernising operations, strengthening revenue collection, and introducing innovative trade facilitation reforms that have bolstered economic stability and national growth.
According to the NES, the award celebrates exemplary public servants whose work has tangibly advanced Nigeria’s developmental objectives.
Mr Adeniyi’s nomination, they said, is a testament to the transformative impact of the reforms spearheaded by the current Customs leadership.
The collaboration between Customs and the NES is expected to feature prominently at the September conference, where stakeholders from academia, government, and industry will deliberate on strategies for driving inclusive and sustainable economic transformation.
