Nigeria Customs Service Collaborates with Global Organizations to Boost Trade Facilitation

 By Lod Onyeji 

In a significant move to enhance trade facilitation in Nigeria, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has partnered with the World Customs Organisation (WCO), the World Bank Group (WBG), and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to host a five-day workshop on Post Clearance Audit (PCA) in Abuja ¹ ². The workshop, which takes place from October 7 to 11, aims to establish a robust PCA framework that complements the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme.

According to Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi, the workshop is crucial for strengthening the compliance framework and advancing trade facilitation efforts ¹ ². "PCA plays a vital role in ensuring compliance in international trade and safeguarding national revenue long after goods have exited Customs control," he emphasized.

Key Objectives of the Workshop

Risk Management: Developing data-driven methodologies to identify high-risk transactions.

Targeting: Creating detailed audit plans for efficient execution.

Capacity Building: Leveraging international expertise and technology.

Compliance: Balancing trade facilitation with compliance.

The collaboration with WCO, WBG, and IMF is expected to foster a secure trading environment, facilitating smoother international trade. Assistant Comptroller-General Suleiman Chiroma noted that PCA ensures the smooth running of Customs processes, introducing measures for seamless transactions. World Customs Organisation expert Russell Clark commended the NCS's dedication to improving trade facilitation processes.

This partnership underscores Nigeria's commitment to enhancing trade facilitation and promoting economic growth. By leveraging global expertise and best practices, the NCS aims to strengthen its PCA system and protect national revenue.