Customs pledges support for renewable energy trade, marks advance ruling anniversary
Omeiza Bilal
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reiterated its commitment to enabling seamless and sustainable trade operations with a focus on renewable energy technologies.
The Service made the pledge during the 2025 edition of its Trade Facilitation Stakeholder Consultative Forum in Lagos. The event coincides with the first anniversary of the Advance Ruling Programme Monday, 19 May 2025.
The meeting with the theme; “Trade Facilitation Measures for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Technologies”, convened key industry stakeholders, development partners, and government officials to explore the role of Customs in driving Nigeria’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
In his keynote address, the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), represented by Deputy Comptroller General (DCG) Caroline Niagwan in Charge of Tariff and Trade described trade facilitation as central to Customs’ evolving role in supporting national development and global sustainability goals.
“With the increasing volume of global trade, it has become imperative for Customs administrations to adopt mechanisms that support the seamless flow of legitimate trade. Such mechanisms are essential not only for sustaining international commerce but also for empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to benefit from cross-border trade”, Adeniyi said.
He noted that the NCS has introduced several initiatives aimed at simplifying customs processes including (B’Odogwu) Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), the Advance Ruling System and the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme.
Speaking on Nigeria’s environmental commitments, the CGC emphasised Customs’ support for the Green Customs Initiative and relevant Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) such as the Montreal Protocol and the Paris Agreement.
“The NCS plays a pivotal role in supporting these national goals by facilitating the importation of renewable energy technologies and enforcing fiscal measures that promote a shift away from fossil fuel dependency, with a view to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060″, he noted.
Commemorating the first anniversary of the Advance Ruling Programme, the Comptroller General expressed the NCS’s unwavering commitment to ensuring efficient, secure and sustainable trade operations.
Highlight of the event was the launch of the handbook of imported export processes of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficient Technologies.
In a goodwill message, the Country Director, Nigeria & ECOWAS GIZ, Dr. Markus Wagner, represented by Duke Benjamin commended the Nigeria Customs for its foresight. He stated that the timely initiative underscores the vital role of the NCS and the role it plays in advancing Nigeria’s sustainable energy resources. “Today’s launch represents another pivotal step towards enhancing the ease of doing business in Nigeria.”
Stakeholders also shared testimonials on the impact of the Advance Ruling Programme, commending the NCS for its innovation and responsiveness.
In a presentation titled; “The Role of Communication Strategy as a Veritable Tool to Deepen Trade Facilitation, the National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Assistant Comptroller (AC) Abdullahi Maiwada, highlighted the role of effective communication in driving reforms.
“In today’s fast-evolving global trade environment, the strategic deployment of effective communication is not just a supportive function, it is a catalyst for transformation.
When used deliberately and strategically, it strengthens institutional credibility and deepens trade facilitation in ways that drive economic growth, enhance environmental sustainability, and bolster national energy security.”
The forum concluded with renewed calls for stronger collaboration between Customs and the private sector to further simplify trade procedures and support Nigeria’s green economy goals.
