The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international partnerships, hosting a high-level diplomatic cocktail reception that brought together ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of missions, and senior government officials in Abuja.

Held at the rooftop of the NCS Headquarters in Maitama, the event drew a distinguished gathering that included the Chief of the Air Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, members of the Customs Management team, and top officials from key security and government institutions, underscoring the significance the federal government attaches to diplomatic and trade engagement.

Welcoming guests, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, expressed appreciation for the continued support of international partners, noting that their contributions remain vital to advancing bilateral relations and global trade cooperation with Nigeria.

“We recognize and appreciate your contributions to strengthening diplomatic and trade relations. The Service remains committed to providing the support and services required for diplomatic missions to operate effectively in Nigeria,” he said.

Adeniyi disclosed that the NCS currently maintains structured collaboration frameworks with over twenty customs administrations worldwide, with focus areas spanning knowledge exchange, capacity development, and operational synergy all geared towards improving trade facilitation and border management.

He stressed that sustained cooperation among customs administrations, diplomatic missions, and security agencies is critical to achieving efficient border security, enhanced revenue generation, and improved economic competitiveness in an increasingly dynamic global trade environment.

The CGC further observed that modern customs administration now functions within a deeply interconnected global system, demanding continuous engagement, trust-building, and shared responsibility to address emerging challenges in trade, security, and compliance management.

“Platforms such as this reception provide invaluable opportunities for dialogue, relationship-building, and exploring new areas of cooperation that will further strengthen Nigeria’s trade and diplomatic architecture,” he added.

A statement by J.O. Adejo (ASCI), Head Media Relations Unit, the evening concluded with networking sessions and goodwill messages from participants. Senior government officials and diplomatic representatives commended the NCS for its consistent efforts in fostering stronger institutional ties and promoting an enabling environment for international collaboration. (The Sun)

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