From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has commended British American Tobacco (BAT) for its strong regulatory compliance and contribution to Nigeria’s economy, urging other investors to emulate the company’s business model.
In a statement issued in Abuja by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the CGC gave the commendation during a recent visit to BAT’s manufacturing factory in Ibadan, Oyo State, describing the facility as an example of the type of investment needed to drive economic diversification.
“As a customs officer, I cannot but notice the high level of commitment to compliance. So, I’m indeed very, very grateful. And I would say that this is one investment that Nigeria got right, and I wish we could have so many companies giving this kind of opportunity and giving back this much to Nigeria,” Adeniyi said.
He noted that the company contributes to government revenue through multiple channels while also creating jobs and supporting local agriculture.
According to him, the Nigeria Customs Service generates revenue from the company through customs duties on imports and excise duties on goods manufactured within the country.
The CGC linked the visit to the Federal Government’s drive to build a non-oil, export-led economy under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the NCS had repositioned itself to support the policy.
“We have established a terminal, a command that is specifically looking after issues of exports. So that’s the only thing they do in that particular command in Lagos. We have a number of export processing terminals in and around Lagos that are tied to that command where exports are being processed,” he said.
The Customs boss further urged other investors to emulate BAT’s model of compliance, integrity and community impact.
“In terms of size, this is probably the biggest in terms of size of operation in Africa. So, we invite other investors; they should take their cue from here. And as we invite them, we’re also asking them to play according to the rules, the way BAT is doing it, a company that is committed to a high level of compliance, a high level of integrity in their operations, and making a significant impact in the society where they serve,” Adeniyi said.
He said the approach would create a “win-win situation” for investors and Nigeria by promoting investment, increasing government revenue, creating employment and strengthening the wider economy.
As part of the visit, the CGC participated in a tree-planting exercise in support of BAT’s environmental sustainability initiative and also embarked on a guided tour of the factory.
