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Fourth WCO-WCA Donor Conference Ends on High Note, Emphasizing Regional Cooperation
By Prince Benson Davies
The Fourth World Customs Organization-West and Central Africa (WCO-WCA) Regional Donor Conference has concluded with a strong call to action for regional customs administrations to enhance collaboration and intelligence sharing to combat emerging security challenges. Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi emphasized the need for decisive action to address issues such as drug trafficking and transnational organized crime. The conference, which brought together 23 customs administrations and key development partners, focused on improving operational capacity, boosting regional security collaboration, and exploring new strategies to tackle security threats.
Delivering the closing address, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, who represented the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Olawale Edun, applauded participants for their dedication and active engagement throughout the conference.
“I know the schedule has been very intense,” he said, “but I hope you’ve also taken time to enjoy the hospitality and rich culture around you. I assure you that the recommendations made during this conference will be addressed as we continue to support modernization programs within our customs administrations.”
He extended warm regards on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria to all delegates, wishing them safe journeys back to their respective countries.
Also speaking at the event was Mr. Ebenezer Tafili, representing the Secretary General of the World Customs Organization. Ian Saunders emphasized the vital role of regional cooperation in customs reform and innovation.
He stated that all stakeholders remain committed to fostering dialogue that will lead to impactful projects and the sustainable development of customs administrations in the region. One of the key outcomes of the conference was the reaffirmation of support for the Fashion of a Journey program—a significant initiative promoting progress across member nations.
Highlighting the unity and collaboration fostered throughout the conference, Tafili noted, “Customs connect us all—from the early brainstorming sessions to the final dance. Let’s continue this journey together to strengthen our administrations and drive economic development across the region.”
Speaking on behalf of the Directors-General of Regional Customs, Edwin Fongod Nuvaga, Commissioner of Cameroon Customs, expressed appreciation to the Government of Japan, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and other donors for their steadfast support and international cooperation, which have enabled the successful implementation of various regional projects.
“Throughout the conference, we engaged in insightful discussions, collaborative sessions, and project proposals that directly addressed the region’s pressing needs,” he said. “Our collective efforts reflect a shared commitment to modernization, enhanced connectivity, and sustainable economic growth.”
On a lighter note, the conference paused to celebrate a retiring delegate from The Gambia. In a heartfelt moment, delegates signed a retirement card with personal messages and offered prayers in honor of the retiree’s years of dedicated service.
In his vote of thanks, Mr. Mitsuru Haga, Deputy Director of the Customs and Tariff Bureau of Japan, conveyed deep appreciation on behalf of donor partners. He commended the enthusiasm, collaboration, and forward-thinking approach demonstrated by all WCO-WCA delegates.
The conference concluded with a renewed sense of unity and purpose, laying a strong foundation for continued collaboration in customs modernization and sustainable development across the West and Central Africa region.
