Joyce Mmereole Okoli
In a landmark move signaling a shift towards digital transformation, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, convened the NCS 2024 ICT—Modernization Management Retreat on Friday, March 1, 2024, in Abuja.
The Custom boss emphasized the urgent need for Customs to adopt technology to enhance efficiency and transparency, stressing the importance of stakeholder engagement for successful implementation.
“We cannot afford to remain entrenched in outdated practices. Stakeholders demand a Customs Service that embraces technology,” stated Adeniyi.
With a focus on harnessing internal resources, particularly in ICT, to accelerate the implementation of an electronic cargo tracking system, he urged his Management Team to spearhead the digitalization efforts.
“It is imperative that we modernize every facet of the Customs Enforcement Ecosystem,” he emphasized.
Welcoming the CGC, Alhaji Saleh Ahmadu, Chairman of Trade Modernization Project Limited, praised the initiative’s potential to revolutionize customs operations, facilitating trade both nationally and across Africa.
Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of ICT/Modernization, ACG Kikelomo Adeola, hailed the CGC’s commitment, emphasizing the significance of the modernization project in reshaping the Service’s activities.
“Welcome to this landmark retreat, where we embark on a journey to recalibrate and modernize the Service, aligning it with international standards.” ACG Adeola stated.
The NCS 2024 ICT-Modernization Management Retreat sets the stage for a transformative era, showcasing Customs’ readiness to embrace technological advancements in pursuit of operational excellence.