Nigeria Customs Service Reaffirms Commitment to Inter-Agency Cooperation Following MMAC Dispute
Author: Lucy Nyambi.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reiterated its commitment to inter-agency collaboration following a recent misunderstanding at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Cargo (MMAC) NAHCO Shed.
The incident, which occurred on 6 March 2025, involved a disagreement between officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and NCS officers over equipment movement and seating arrangements.
According to a press release issued by the National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller of Customs (AC) Abdullahi Maiwada, on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS emphasised its adherence to the World Customs Organisation’s (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards, which promotes seamless cooperation between Customs, government agencies, and businesses.
“The NCS remains unwavering in its commitment to fostering a collaborative working environment. This approach is essential for seamless trade facilitation, regulatory compliance, and the overall growth of the national economy,” the statement read.
The Service further clarified that the NAHCO and SAHCO Import & Export Warehouses operate as licensed Customs Bonded Warehouses in compliance with Section 122 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023. “As outlined in Section 127 of the Act, these warehouses remain under NCS control.”
According to the statement, under the leadership of the Comptroller-General, Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS reaffirmed its commitment to fostering inter-agency cooperation and ensuring the smooth operation of Customs-controlled areas to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
The Service also reaffirmed its mandate to facilitate trade, enforce regulatory compliance, and safeguard national security, while calling on all stakeholders to prioritise cooperation, adhere to due process, and maintain mutual respect to sustain a conducive environment for economic growth and seamless cargo operations.
