President Muhammadu Buhari has hailed the newly signed Customs Act, expressing his confidence that it will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of customs administration. Speaking at the inauguration of the new Customs headquarters building, named CUSTOMS HOUSE, in Maitama Abuja on Tuesday, the President emphasized that this Act signifies his administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, attracting investments, and driving economic growth.
Recognizing the vital role of Customs in promoting economic prosperity and overall national development, President Buhari acknowledged the challenges faced by the Customs Service, particularly concerning the vulnerability of the nation’s borders to illicit activities. The recent surge in transnational crimes, smuggling, and security threats necessitates the urgent need for a robust and agile customs administration. President Buhari assured the public of his awareness of these challenges and his determination to address them.
Highlighting his commitment to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of customs administration, President Buhari recently signed the Customs Bill into law. This milestone legislation, a result of extensive consultations and deliberations, represents a significant leap toward modernizing customs operations, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and promoting trade facilitation. It underscores the President’s dedication to creating a business-friendly environment, attracting investments, and fostering economic growth.
The President commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Col Hameed Ibrahim Ali (Rtd), for his exceptional service and successful delivery of the mandate entrusted to him since 2015. Recognizing Ali’s selflessness and unwavering pursuit of excellence while upholding personal integrity, President Buhari expressed hope that his leadership style would inspire a new generation of Customs leaders and managers who share a strong desire to serve their country with transparency and honesty.
Dr. Zainab Ahmed, the Minister of Finance, Budget, and National Planning and Chair of the Board of the organization, emphasized the symbolic significance of the new Customs headquarters building as a testament to the Nigeria Customs Service’s unwavering commitment to enhancing its operations and effectively addressing the challenges of the 21st century. She further highlighted the Board’s dedication to ensuring the welfare of the service.
In his address, the Comptroller General of Customs, retired Hameed Ali, revealed that the completion of the new building required an investment of N19.6 billion. He expressed gratitude to President Buhari for signing the Nigeria Customs Bill into law, which he considers a landmark achievement for the Nigeria Customs Service and the entire nation. The legislation provides a comprehensive legal framework aligned with international best practices, empowering the service with strengthened regulatory capabilities and improved trade facilitation.
Furthermore, Ali praised President Buhari’s support for the Customs Modernization Project, which aims to revolutionize all aspects of Nigeria Customs Service operations through the innovative use of technology. The Comptroller General acknowledged that this support will contribute significantly to the modernization efforts of the service.
With the signing of the Customs Act and the inauguration of the new Customs headquarters building, President Buhari’s administration reiterates its commitment to improving customs administration, fostering a business-friendly environment, attracting investments, and driving economic growth. These measures are expected to enhance the efficiency of customs operations and promote trade facilitation, ensuring a prosperous future for Nigeria.
Comments are closed.