Reaffirms Commitment to Advancing Aviation Growth and Operational Efficiency
The Nigeria Customs Service Technical & Hangar Services Limited (NCT&HSL) convened its first-ever Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in Abuja, marking a pivotal moment in its journey toward enhancing aviation services within the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
The gathering brought together top officials from NCS, the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), and other key stakeholders in the aviation and logistics industries. Discussions centered on operational expansion, investment opportunities, and strategies to strengthen air surveillance capabilities to support customs enforcement.
Reflecting on Growth and Future Prospects
Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, commended the company’s progress, noting that its achievements in the past year have exceeded expectations.
“It is evident that the company has made significant strides in this short period, surpassing its achievements in the preceding year. The future prospects of this company are even more important to us,” he stated.
Adeniyi reflected on a recent visit to the company’s hangar, emphasizing its growing operational activity. “On my way back from Ilorin yesterday, I made a quick visit to the hangar and saw how busy it was. This reassured me that we are investing in the right direction.”
Strengthening Investment and Operational Independence
Highlighting potential growth avenues, Adeniyi disclosed that the Ministry of Finance had shown interest in further investing in the company to provide additional capital, expertise, and industry connections.
“As the majority shareholder, our expectation is that the company will continue to grow as a profit-yielding entity, providing value to stakeholders and shareholders alike,” he said.
He also underscored the need for operational autonomy, assuring the board and management that while the Customs Service remains a stakeholder, the company would maintain its independence.
“I assure the board and management that the Nigeria Customs Service will treat the company as an independent entity. However, transparency and accountability remain non-negotiable,” he emphasized.
Building a Sustainable and Efficient Aviation Subsidiary
Managing Director of NCT&HSL, Capt. Kuhi Mbaya, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to modernizing customs aviation operations, in line with the broader vision of the Comptroller-General to establish specialized subsidiaries that enhance efficiency and revenue generation.
“We are strategically employing qualified and competent staff while ensuring financial prudence. Our focus remains on balancing workforce competence with cost efficiency,” Mbaya stated.
As part of cost-cutting measures, he revealed that the company was implementing innovative financial strategies for equipment maintenance.
“Some of our maintenance equipment is costly and only used occasionally. Instead of investing tens of thousands of dollars in such assets when financial prudence is crucial, we are exploring cost-effective alternatives, including leasing and resource-sharing partnerships,” he explained.
Mbaya assured stakeholders that NCT&HSL remains committed to operational excellence, safety, and financial sustainability.
“We continue to explore innovative ways to optimize expenditure while maintaining the highest standards of compliance and operational integrity,” he concluded.
Charting the Future of Customs Aviation Operations
The AGM concluded with the appointment of new auditors and the reappointment of directors, setting the stage for long-term strategic planning. Key resolutions included upgrading aircraft maintenance facilities, enhancing ground handling services, and expanding the NCS fleet to bolster customs enforcement operations.
With a clear vision and renewed commitment, NCT&HSL is poised to play a critical role in shaping the future of customs aviation services in Nigeria.
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