Let technology lead, CG Adeniyi charges officers at ICT retreat in Abuja
Omeiza Bilal
As part of his efforts to implement his “Innovation” policy aimed to push the Nigeria Customs Service toward deeper digital transformation, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has declared open a three-day retreat organised by the Nigeria Customs Service’s ICT and Modernisation Department.
The retreat, themed: “Turn off work; turn on retreat”, focused on enhancing officers’ capacity in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud Computing, Software Development, and other tech-driven solutions critical to the Service’s modernisation agenda.
Speaking during the opening ceremony at the IBETO Hotels in Abuja on Friday, 16th April 2025, CGC Adeniyi, expressed satisfaction by the turnout and calibre of participants, and described the gathering as the “largest assemblage of very talented, very motivated, very skillful customs officers ever in ICT units.”
The CGC remarked, “It’s my pleasure to be here. Every time I engage with this unit, I’m reminded of a meeting we had many years ago where I told the officers then to begin to see themselves as drivers of change in the Nigeria Customs Service. That vision is now more important than ever.”
The CGC, who recounted how rapidly evolving digital technologies—from machine learning to non-intrusive inspection and automated risk management—have transformed customs operations globally, also urged the officers to step beyond conventional boundaries and embrace their role as solution providers.
“We’re at a point where ICT is no longer just a support function; it is the engine room of our modernisation process. As we transition from legacy systems to indigenous digital platforms, I expect this unit to continue to bring in innovative solutions to the complex challenges we face.” CGC Adeniyi said.
While acknowledging the uncertainties ahead, especially following the expiration of certain long-standing IT service agreements, the CGC expressed confidence in the team’s ability to deliver.
He assured, “In the past year, this unit has helped demystify some of the toughest issues we’ve had. Whether it’s the success of the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, the pilot phase of our Customs declarations, or automating container movement to inland terminals, ICT has been at the centre.”
The CGC also celebrated the rising prominence of Nigerian Customs officers in the international customs community, particularly at the World Customs Organization (WCO), noting their leadership roles in areas such as data harmonisation, geospatial intelligence, and digital trade compliance.
He stated that, “This talent must count for something, and we must begin to see ICT not just as a department, but as the enabling force behind a responsive, modern, and professional Customs Service. Let us give technology the lead.”
CGC Adeniyi, however, said the Service must aim to reduce physical examinations at ports by at least 50% before the end of the third quarter of 2025 through digital profiling tools, including AI, cloud computing, and non-intrusive inspection technology.
“We must decide that 50% of containers exiting our ports will be intelligence-driven selections. We already have the tools—now let’s apply them deliberately and systematically.” He added.
Shortly after the opening ceremony, the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of ICT and Modernisation, who is also the convener of the retreat, spoke with journalists and echoed the CGC’s optimism.
She highlighted, “The task ahead may look enormous, but when great minds come together with one purpose, nothing is insurmountable. We believe in the CGC’s vision, and we are resolute in our commitment to deliver. With God backing us and our unity intact, there is no challenge we cannot overcome.”
She reaffirmed that the department is not just prepared but motivated to push boundaries, build robust systems, and uphold the CGC’s policy thrust, which has centred on innovation, integrity, and institutional strength.
“More work is the reward of an excelling individual, and we are ready. Together, we will raise the banner of the Nigeria Customs Service and take our digital transformation journey to new heights.” she added.
