From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has renewed its commitment to promoting legitimate trade with China while intensifying efforts to curb illicit economic activities.
The move is aimed at strengthening enforcement and enhancing bilateral cooperation to create a more secure and streamlined economic partnership between both countries.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Service said the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, made this known while receiving Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to China, Lieutenant General Abdulrahman Dambazau (Rtd.), at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja.
CGC Adeniyi described the envoy as someone familiar with the Service, considering his military background, leadership experience, and distinguished career.
He noted that Dambazau’s training and wealth of experience had adequately prepared him for the diplomatic assignment and expressed confidence in his ability to strengthen Nigeria’s mission in China.
The Customs boss described China as Nigeria’s largest trading partner and said discussions during the visit focused on strategic trade relations and legitimate business operations involving Chinese companies operating in Nigeria.
According to him, some Chinese companies are already participating in the Service’s Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, while those complying with trade regulations and global best practices have continued to receive commendation.
Adeniyi disclosed that the Service maintains a Customs Mutual Administrative Agreement (CMAA) with the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) to support legitimate trade and strengthen bilateral customs cooperation.
He stressed that the NCS cannot operate in isolation, highlighting the need for collaboration with relevant government agencies to harmonise operations and strengthen trade facilitation.
The CGC added that trade figures released by both countries should align, noting that there should be no significant discrepancies in trade statistics between Nigeria and China.
“Stronger engagement and continuous communication between the NCS and China will ensure more effective trade facilitation and mutual economic benefits,” he said.
Speaking on enforcement, Adeniyi said Nigeria is working to ensure the country does not become a transit route for illegal wildlife trade, while calling for stronger cooperation and intelligence sharing.
He also urged closer collaboration in tackling illegal mining activities to strengthen border enforcement and improve data-driven operations.
The Ambassador-Designate to China, Lieutenant General Dambazau (Rtd.), expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded to him, noting that it was his first official visit to the Customs Headquarters.
He said closer engagement with the NCS would make his assignment easier and help maximise the benefits of Nigeria-China relations.
Dambazau highlighted the role of Customs in facilitating trade under the zero-tariff arrangement for African countries, stressing the need to reduce cargo clearance time, strengthen certification processes, and tighten regulations on imports from China.
He warned against the abuse of trade policies for unlawful gains.
“Stronger collaboration and continuous support from the NCS will ensure smoother trade processes and the full realisation of Nigeria-China trade relations,” he stated.