The Nigeria Customs Service has declared that the introduction of its Advance Ruling System, a brainchild of the Comptroller-General, Adewale Adeniyi, aims to halt the illegal importation of firearms and substandard goods into Nigeria.
Adeniyi said that the initiative will also enhance the regulation and efficiency of importing fish and other goods, maintaining that the system serves as a comprehensive guide for economic operators in Nigeria, providing step-by-step instructions to ensure compliance with customs regulations.
He stated this during a sensitization programme in Lagos and urged customs officers to strictly adhere to operational guidelines outlined in Section 24 of the Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA), which empower them to prevent the entry of harmful goods into the country.
Adeniyi, who was represented by Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Saidu Yusuf, explained that the system requires importers to declare and clarify the status of their goods before shipment, facilitating proper classification, valuation, and origin verification.
Upon completion, a certification process ensures compliance, aimed at curbing the influx of illicit firearms, counterfeit, and substandard products that undermine Nigeria’s market integrity.
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He stressed that the measures were in alignment with global standards advocated by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Adeniyi predicted that the full implementation of this system will not only highlight the role of customs officers but also ensure the authenticity of imported goods through rigorous scrutiny.
Speaking further, he highlighted the system’s potential to streamline operations at ports, airports, and borders, promoting faster cargo clearance, reducing congestion, and optimizing space for incoming shipments.
He concluded that the improvements would significantly enhance revenue generation for both the Nigeria Customs Service and the entire country.
