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NIGERIA CUSTOMS AND CHINESE AMBASSADOR-DESIGNATE MEET TO STRENGTHEN TRADE COMPLIANCE AND BORDER SECURITY
By Prince Benson Davies
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has restated its resolve to expand lawful trade with China while intensifying efforts to curb illicit trade flows between both countries. The Service said the partnership will focus on improved enforcement, intelligence sharing, and stronger bilateral frameworks to safeguard Nigeria’s economic interests.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi MFR, stated this on Wednesday, 20 May 2026, while receiving the Ambassador-Designate to China, Lieutenant General Abdulrahman Dambazau (Rtd.), at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja.
CGC Adeniyi said the envoy was not a stranger to the Service, considering his antecedents, military background, and distinguished career.
He noted that Dambazau’s military training and leadership experience had prepared him for the diplomatic assignment and expressed confidence in his ability to strengthen Nigeria’s mission in China.
The CGC described China as Nigeria’s biggest trading partner, adding that discussions focused on strategic trade relations and legitimate business operations involving Chinese companies operating in Nigeria.
According to him, some Chinese companies are already part of the Service’s Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme. At the same time, those complying with trade regulations and global best practices have continued to receive commendation.
The Customs boss disclosed that the Service maintains a Customs Mutual Administrative Agreement (CMAA) with the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) to support legitimate trade and strengthen bilateral customs cooperation.
He stressed that the NCS cannot operate in isolation, highlighting the importance of collaboration with relevant government agencies to harmonise operations and strengthen trade facilitation.
Adeniyi added that trade figures released by both countries should align, noting that there should be no significant gaps in trade analysis between Nigeria and China.
“Stronger engagement and continuous communication between the NCS and China will ensure more effective trade facilitation and mutual economic benefit,” he stated.
Speaking on enforcement, the CGC said Nigeria is working to ensure the country does not become a transit route for illegal wildlife trade, while calling for stronger cooperation and intelligence sharing.
He also urged closer collaboration on illegal mining to strengthen border enforcement and improve data-driven operations.
The Ambassador-Designate to China, Lieutenant General Dambazau (Rtd.), expressed appreciation for the reception accorded him, noting that it was his first official visit to the Customs Headquarters.
He said closer engagement with the NCS would make his assignment easier and ensure maximum benefits from Nigeria-China relations.
Dambazau highlighted the role of Customs in supporting trade under zero-tariff arrangements for African countries, stressing the need for reduced cargo clearance time, stronger certification processes, and tighter regulation of imports from China. He warned against the abuse of trade policies for unlawful gains.
Both parties agreed that deepening institutional cooperation would enhance the credibility of trade data, reduce clearance delays, and create a more predictable environment for compliant businesses. The meeting concluded with a commitment to maintain regular dialogue and technical exchanges between the NCS and Chinese customs authorities to address emerging challenges in trade and border management.
