Let Technology Lead the Way — CGC Adeniyi Urges Officers at ICT Retreat in Abuja
Abuja, Nigeria — Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi has reaffirmed his commitment to technological advancement in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) during the opening of a three-day ICT retreat in Abuja.
Embracing Digital Transformation
The retreat, themed “Turn off Work; Turn on Retreat,” brought together officers from the ICT/Modernisation Department to enhance their skills in emerging technologies including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud Computing, and Software Development.
Speaking at the IBETO Hotels venue on April 16, 2025, CGC Adeniyi praised the gathering as “the largest assembly of highly talented, motivated, and skilled ICT officers in the history of the Service.”
Technology as the Engine of Modernization
“ICT is no longer just a support function; it is the engine room of our modernization efforts,” Adeniyi declared. He emphasized the need for officers to transition from traditional roles to becoming innovative problem-solvers in the digital age.
The Customs boss highlighted several technological achievements including:
- Successful implementation of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program
- Piloting of digital Customs declarations
- Automation of container transfers to inland terminals
Ambitious Digital Targets
Adeniyi set an ambitious target to reduce physical examinations at ports by 50% before Q3 2025 through:
- Digital profiling
- AI-powered systems
- Cloud-based solutions
- Non-intrusive inspection technologies
Department’s Commitment
Deputy Comptroller-General Kikelomo Adeola, head of the ICT/Modernisation Department, expressed confidence in meeting these challenges:
“When great minds unite with a shared purpose, no challenge is insurmountable. We believe in the CGC’s vision and are fully committed to delivering on it.”
The retreat represents a significant step in the NCS’s digital transformation journey, aligning with global customs modernization trends and the World Customs Organization’s (WCO) standards.
Source: Neptune Prime