(SINL NIGERIA) The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has renewed its commitment to boosting legitimate trade with China while clamping down on illicit economic activities. This effort centers on tightening enforcement and strengthening bilateral cooperation to create a more secure, streamlined economic partnership between both nations.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi stated this on Wednesday, while receiving the Ambassador-Designate to China, Lieutenant General Abdulrahman Dambazau (Rtd.), at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja.
CGC Adeniyi said the envoy was not a stranger to the Service, considering his antecedents, military background, and distinguished career.
He noted that Dambazau’s military training and leadership experience had prepared him for the diplomatic assignment and expressed confidence in his ability to strengthen Nigeria’s mission in China.
The CGC described China as Nigeria’s biggest trading partner, adding that discussions focused on strategic trade relations and legitimate business operations involving Chinese companies operating in Nigeria.
According to him, some Chinese companies are already part of the Service’s Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme. At the same time, those complying with trade regulations and global best practices have continued to receive commendation.
The Customs boss disclosed that the Service maintains a Customs Mutual Administrative Agreement (CMAA) with the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) to support legitimate trade and strengthen bilateral customs cooperation.
He stressed that the NCS cannot operate in isolation, highlighting the importance of collaboration with relevant government agencies to harmonise operations and strengthen trade facilitation.
Adeniyi added that trade figures released by both countries should align, noting that there should be no significant gaps in trade analysis between Nigeria and China.
“Stronger engagement and continuous communication between the NCS and China will ensure more effective trade facilitation and mutual economic benefit,” he stated.
Speaking on enforcement, the CGC said Nigeria is working to ensure the country does not become a transit route for illegal wildlife trade, while calling for stronger cooperation and intelligence sharing.
He also urged closer collaboration on illegal mining to strengthen border enforcement and improve data-driven operations.
The Ambassador-Designate to China, Lieutenant General Dambazau (Rtd.), expressed appreciation for the reception accorded him, noting that it was his first official visit to the Customs Headquarters.
He said closer engagement with the NCS would make his assignment easier and ensure maximum benefits from Nigeria-China relations.
Dambazau highlighted the role of Customs in supporting trade under zero-tariff arrangements for African countries, stressing the need for reduced cargo clearance time, stronger certification processes, and tighter regulation of imports from China. He warned against the abuse of trade policies for unlawful gains.
“Stronger collaboration and continuous support from the NCS will ensure smoother trade processes and the full realisation of Nigeria and China trade relations,” he stated.
