The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced plans to inaugurate the Customs Analytical Laboratory as part of measures to combat smuggling.
This specialised facility, equipped with advanced analytical instruments and techniques, aims to enhance the NCS’s ability to detect and prevent smuggling, counterfeit goods, and other illicit activities at the ports.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, revealed this initiative during a media briefing held at the Service’s Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.
CGC Adeniyi emphasised that the laboratory would be operational between the second and third quarters of 2024.
Speaking on the laboratory’s primary objective, CGC Adeniyi said it was conceived to ensure compliance with Customs regulations by providing accurate and reliable testing and analysis of imported and exported goods.
The Customs’ boss further noted that the facility will conduct comprehensive tests to determine the authenticity, composition, quality, and safety of goods by utilising technological-based methods.
CGC Adeniyi expressed confidence that the implementation of the Customs Analytical Laboratory would significantly enhance the Service’s capability to safeguard public health, safety, and economic interests by curbing illicit trade activities.
He added that the NCS was actively engaging in discussions with the Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC) to bolster export transactions.
Adeniyi further stressed that with a dedicated technical committee in place, the Service aims to facilitate exports in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda to diversify the economy and foster foreign exchange earnings from non-oil exports.
The CGC highlighted the importance of these efforts in preparation for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) commencement, slated for April 30, 2024.
Acknowledging public concerns regarding customs document verification, Adeniyi assured the public of accessible application gateways for verifying customs documents while ensuring convenience for stakeholders.
He added that the Service is also aligning with the government’s broader port operational enhancement, including the introduction of a Single Window system, spearheaded by the Minister of Finance.
CGC Adeniyi revealed that the steering committee for the Single Window System’s implementation would be inaugurated shortly.
