Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has warmly welcomed the federal government’s approval of the Nigeria Customs Service University, praising the initiative as a major leap towards enhancing the efficiency and expertise of customs officers across the country.
In a statement issued by Hon. Ibrahim Tanko, National Coordinator of NAGAFF’s 100% Compliance Team, the association commended the government and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for their foresight in establishing the university.
Tanko emphasized that the university will play a crucial role in improving the intellectual capabilities and overall productivity of NCS personnel.
“We wholeheartedly welcome the establishment of the Nigeria Customs Service University,” Tanko remarked, adding that the institution is expected to offer specialized training and education tailored to the unique needs of customs officers.
This, in turn, will bolster their effectiveness in managing Nigeria’s borders and facilitating trade.
“The establishment of the Nigeria Customs Service University is expected to provide cutting-edge training and education tailored to the needs of customs officers, thereby improving their efficiency and effectiveness in managing Nigeria’s borders and trade. This development aligns with the broader goals of enhancing trade enforcement, revenue generation, and customs expertise in the region.”
The new university is seen as a strategic move to enhance trade enforcement, revenue generation, and customs expertise, aligning with broader national goals. As it takes shape, the institution is anticipated to become a center of excellence for customs education and training, helping the NCS achieve its vision of becoming a world-class customs administration.
Tanko also underscored the importance of utilizing the existing customs training schools in Ikeja and Kano for conducting promotion examinations for customs officers. He called on the Comptroller General of Customs to reconsider the current practice of outsourcing these exams to external contractors, advocating for the exams to be managed internally to ensure greater integrity and security.
“The Nigeria Customs training schools are more than capable of conducting these examinations,” Tanko noted, emphasizing the high caliber and intellect of the commandants who lead these institutions. According to him, managing the promotion process internally would help maintain the prestige and integrity of the NCS.
NAGAFF’s endorsement of in-house examiners reflects a broader commitment to transparency and efficiency within the NCS. By leveraging internal expertise, the association believes the customs service can achieve greater operational success and contribute more significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth.