The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has advocated for a strong national commitment to the ‘Nigeria First’ policy, positioning it as a critical tool to enhance cross-border trade and strengthen national security.
Adeniyi made the call while delivering the keynote address at the Obafemi Awolowo University Muslim Graduates’ Association (UNIFEMGA) Annual Conference held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
Speaking on the theme “Cross-Border Trade and Security Implications on the Nigerian Economy: Taking Advantage of Global Trade Dynamics”, the CGC noted that trade growth and national security must go hand-in-hand for Nigeria to achieve economic stability.
“Nigeria’s economic growth depends significantly on achieving an optimal blend of trade facilitation and security enforcement,” Adeniyi stated.
He disclosed that Nigeria’s total trade value skyrocketed to ₦196.94 trillion in 2024—an impressive 179.3% increase from the previous year—despite persistent threats at the nation’s borders.
Customs Revenue Hits Record High
Adeniyi also highlighted the achievements of the Customs Service, announcing a record ₦6.1 trillion in revenue generated in 2024, exceeding its target by 20.2%. He attributed the feat to reforms, resilience, and adaptive strategies deployed by the Service amid a complex and volatile environment.
Regional Security Challenges and Trade Impact
The Customs boss provided insights into region-specific security threats affecting trade:
- In the Northeast, ongoing insurgency continues to disrupt major trade routes. However, initiatives like the World Customs Organisation’s Project Securité par Collaboration (SPC++) have enabled alternative trade channels.
- In the Northwest, the impact of banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling has hampered mining operations and collapsed livestock-related industries.
- The Southeast is facing trade disruptions in key manufacturing hubs such as Aba, Onitsha, and Nnewi due to secessionist agitations.
- In the Southwest, widespread smuggling of petroleum products, arms, and banned goods poses a major challenge. Contraband worth ₦35.29 billion was seized in 2024, with another ₦7.7 billion intercepted in Q1 2025.
“These challenges present Nigeria with a choice: remain trapped in reactive responses or transform our hard-earned expertise into strategic advantage within the AfCFTA framework,” Adeniyi warned.
‘Nigeria First’ in Action
According to the CGC, the ‘Nigeria First’ principle has already been embedded in Customs operations. He revealed that all operational vehicles procured by the Service in 2024 were sourced from local manufacturers—a move aimed at boosting indigenous industries and conserving foreign exchange.
Strategic Roadmap for Border Security and Trade Growth
Adeniyi rolled out a comprehensive three-tier roadmap to secure and enhance border trade:
- Short-Term: Modernisation of major border posts, including Seme-Krake (Benin), Jibia-Maradi (Niger), and Mfum-Ekok (Cameroon).
- Medium-Term: Establishment of secure trade corridors equipped with surveillance systems and rapid-response mechanisms.
- Long-Term: Creation of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) around border communities to promote economic development and formal trade.
Global Trade Pressures and AfCFTA Opportunity
The CGC also addressed global trade headwinds, citing a recent 14% reciprocal tariff imposed by the United States on Nigerian non-oil exports as a warning for urgent market diversification. He urged Nigerian businesses to embrace the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and leverage tools like the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), which allows for intra-African trade using local currencies.
“By deploying these strategies with discipline, Nigeria can become the secure trade hub of West Africa—transforming our security investments into economic strength on both regional and global platforms,” he said.
The event was attended by prominent dignitaries including the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke; the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; and the Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire.
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