NCS builds laboratory to safeguard public health

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has begun the process of establishing a laboratory to tackle counterfeiting and other forms of infractions. This is contained in a statement issued by the National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, in Abuja on Sunday.

Maiwada said the Acting Comptroller-General (C-G) of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, who had commenced the process, was committed to deploying necessary strategies to enhance customs operations.

According to him, the laboratory will be equipped to deliver precise identification, verification and classification of goods.

“The NCS laboratory will provide comprehensive solutions to address challenges such as counterfeit goods, smuggling and non-compliant imports.

“This will bolster revenue generation while ensuring the protection of public health and safety,” he said.

Maiwada said the laboratory would further enable efficient enforcement measures and informed decision-making. He said it would also foster an environment of trust and credibility within Nigeria’s trade ecosystem.

According to him, the laboratory will boost trade competitiveness and national economic growth in line with the vision of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The spokesperson said the acting comptroller-general had began engaging in strategic discussions with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) to improve service delivery. He also said Adeniyi was discussing with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Japan Customs Administration on the matter.

“Acting C-G Adeniyi’s engagements extended to fruitful discussions with relevant experts and donors, focusing on crucial areas.

“Some of the areas are conducting Time Release Study (TRS), implementing  Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, leadership and management development,” he stated.

Maiwada said Adeniyi would ensure “cutting-edge technologies while consolidating on previous gains to redefine customs practices”.

Recalls that the appointment of Acting C-G Adewale Adeniyi was announced on Monday, 19 June.

“This was while he was attending the Policy Commission and Council meetings of WCO in Brussels, Belgium.

“Leveraging this global platform, the Acting C-G engaged in topical discussions within the global Customs community.

“He advocatd exploration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven solutions to enhance communication, decision-making and enforcement operations,” he said.

NAN/S.S