Customs Engages UAE To Deepen Trade Ties

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on 29 April 2026 held a diplomatic engagement with the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Abuja, where both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trade relations and customs cooperation between Nigeria and the UAE.

During the engagement, the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Salem Saeed, congratulated the CGC on his emergence as Chairman of the World Customs Organization (WCO), describing it as a proud achievement for Nigeria and Africa.

He praised the CGC and his management team for their leadership and commitment, noting that the partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service and the UAE has produced strong results, particularly in non-oil trade.

“We have achieved a substantial increase in non-oil trade from the year 2023 to 2025. Despite the challenges over the years, this remains one of the best relationships we have had,” the Ambassador said.

He also disclosed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been sent to strengthen cooperation between the Nigeria Customs Service and the UAE Customs, especially in trade facilitation and customs administration.

Describing the CGC as one of the most valued guests the Embassy has received, the Ambassador said the Customs management team has worked hard to keep Nigeria at its current level of trade growth.

Responding, the Comptroller-General appreciated the warm reception and expressed optimism that this engagement will set another phase to solidify the cordial relationship between Nigeria and the UAE.

“We are happy to work with the UAE to show the true nature of trade. We also want to make trade easier, especially for SMEs, and use your embassy to bring Customs administrations together,” Adeniyi stated.

The CGC noted that trade relations between both countries have improved significantly within the last two years and said the NCS will continue engaging traders and service providers to improve efficiency and strengthen legitimate trade.

He also stressed the need for both countries to work together in isolating individuals whose actions damage Nigeria’s image abroad, noting that stronger cooperation will improve security, trust, and economic growth.