New Customs Head office, Abuja
The CCG of Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adeniyi has revealed that “Despite our achievements, the Service encountered several challenges during the quarter that impacted our operations and performance.
“Chief among these was exchange rate volatility, which continued to affect trade patterns and customs valuation. During Q1 2025, we recorded 62 changes in the exchange rate, ranging from a minimum of ₦1,477.72 to a maximum of ₦1,569.53 per USD, with an average rate of ₦1,521.59.
He noted that “This volatility, though slightly moderated compared to the previous quarter (Q4 2024) which saw rates as high as ₦1,688.28, continues to create uncertainty for traders and affects the predictability of import costs. We have been working closely with the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Finance to implement measures aimed at stabilizing the exchange rate for import declarations.
According to him, “Another significant challenge was the implementation and subsequent suspension of the Financial Customs Service Operation (FCSO), also known as the four percent FOB. This development created temporary operational adjustments for both the Service and our stakeholders.
Adeniyi also averred that “In March, we also faced uncertainty regarding the 14% Reciprocal tariff imposed on Nigerian exports by the United States of America. This development has potential implications for our export trade and requires strategic diplomatic and policy responses.
Continuing, he added that “Non-compliance, particularly in the form of smuggling, remains a persistent challenge despite our enhanced enforcement efforts. We continue to adapt our strategies to combat increasingly sophisticated smuggling networks, leveraging technology and intelligence-led operations to tackle this threat to our economy and security.
STRATEGIC OUTLOOK
Looking ahead to the remainder of 2025, our strategic focus will center on two key areas:
- Continuous Modernization. We will accelerate the aggressive modernization of Service processes and procedures through the launch of innovative solutions designed to enhance stakeholder experience. This includes further expansion of the B’Odogwu platform, implementation of advanced risk management systems, and integration of emerging technologies into our operations.
- Service Delivery Enhancement. We remain committed to delivering quality services to all our stakeholders, with emphasis on efficiency, transparency, and professionalism. This commitment will guide our human resource development initiatives, procedural reforms, and stakeholder engagement strategies.
Adeniyi made it clear that “These strategic priorities align with the Service’s long-term vision of becoming a fully modernized customs administration that facilitates legitimate trade while effectively securing the nation’s borders and optimizing revenue collection for national development.
