The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has reiterated the importance of strengthening intra-African trade for the continent’s overall progress. He emphasized this during the Biashara Afrika 2024 forum, held in Kigali, Rwanda, from October 9 to 11, 2024.
Meeting with AfCFTA Secretary-General Adeniyi had a key meeting with the Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Wamkele Mene, to explore new strategies for enhancing trade facilitation. Both leaders discussed how to tackle existing challenges and promote small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which play a crucial role in increasing intra-African trade.
AfCFTA’s Recognition of Nigeria Customs Service During the forum, the AfCFTA Secretary-General praised the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for its forward-thinking initiatives. These include the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme, Advanced Rulings, and Time Release studies, positioning the NCS as a model for customs operations across Africa.
NCS’s Commitment to AfCFTA Goals In response, Adeniyi commended the AfCFTA Secretariat for its dedication to advancing the trade agreement’s goals, despite facing limited resources. He also highlighted the support provided by Nigeria’s government, especially the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, which provides the legal framework for improving trade efficiency.
Milestone in Nigerian Exports A highlight of the discussions was the success of Mrs. Chinwe Ezenwa, CEO of LE LOOK Nigeria Limited, who became the first Nigerian woman to export goods under the AfCFTA’s Guided Trade Initiative (GTI). Her export, sent from Apapa Port on July 16, 2024, showcases the growing potential for Nigerian businesses in the continental market.
Looking Ahead: Future Plans The meeting concluded with a commitment from the AfCFTA Secretariat to develop a concept note outlining the way forward for intra-African trade. The NCS also pledged to bring these discussions to the Heads of Customs Administrations across Africa, ensuring a unified approach to addressing customs challenges.
Conclusion Biashara Afrika, now in its second edition, has become a key platform for discussions on AfCFTA implementation, providing opportunities for African governments and businesses to address evolving trade challenges.
