In order to improve export commerce from Nigeria, the Nigeria Customs Service has said that it is willing to work with the Nigeria Export Promotion Commission (NEPC).
During a recent courtesy visit to the Customs Corporate Headquarters in Abuja by the commission’s management team, Adewale Adeniyi, the comptroller-general of Customs, revealed this.
“Collaborating with the Nigeria Export Promotion Commission will enable Customs to leverage the Commission’s expertise and resources to further streamline export processes, reduce bottlenecks, and create an enabling environment for exporters,” he said.
In an all-hands conference at the Customs Corporate Headquarters in Abuja, the Comptroller-General emphasized once more how crucial it is to redefine exports in order to boost outbound commerce.
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While applauding Nigeria’s trade management achievements, he emphasized the need for increased export support, especially in the area of logistics.
In response, Nonye Ayeni, executive director of the NEPC, commended the Comptroller-General of Customs for his achievements since assuming office in 2023.
She said Nigeria has an abundance of resources especially agricultural products and solid minerals, adding that there is a need for advocacy with relevant agencies to alleviate the challenges faced by exporters.
Ayeni emphasised the significance of non-oil exports for economic growth and development, even as she called for collaboration between agencies of government to actualise the “Export 35 redefined” initiative.
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She also urged sister agencies to actively contribute to minimising logistical challenges exporters face and advocated for establishing aggregation centres to facilitate export.
According to her, the meeting with Nigeria Customs is part of NEPC’s commitment to fostering partnerships with key stakeholders in the trade sector to facilitate smoother trade operations and promote economic growth.
Ajibola Odusanya, Customs Area Controller of Lilypond Export Command Lagos, highlighted the importance of Nigeria Export Proceeds (NXP) to repatriate export proceeds and emphasised that no formal export can be done without it.
He identified the absence of NXP as a significant challenge for exporters, stressing its importance in facilitating trade
