NCS Board Unveils 2 DCGS, 5 ACGS Greenlights New ICT for Blue Economy
By Faridat Salifu
In a move poised to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime trade and boost the nation’s blue economy, the Nigeria Customs Service Board (NCSB) has confirmed the appointment of two Deputy Comptroller-Generals (DCGs) and five Assistant Comptroller-Generals (ACGs).
The appointments were finalised during the recent Board’s 60th regular meeting, held at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) corporate headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, and chaired by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.
The newly appointed DCGs, OA Alajogun and KI Adeola, along with ACGs IG Umar, MM Tilley-Gyado, BA Makinde, OA Salefu, and T Bomodi, are expected to play critical roles in driving maritime trade regulation and ensuring a more efficient customs framework at Nigeria’s ports.
Their leadership is seen as crucial to unlocking the economic potential of the country’s blue economy by enhancing operational oversight, combating smuggling, and facilitating smoother trade processes.
The appointments are part of a broader strategy to manage senior officer retirement while adhering to the Federal Character Policy outlined in the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
In addition to the appointments, a significant step towards modernising the Service was taken with the approval to elevate the NCS ICT Unit into a full-fledged department, a decision tabled in the Board’s 59th regular meeting on May 14, 2024.
This ICT Department upgrade is a critical driver for improving Nigeria’s blue economy, as it allows for the deployment of advanced technologies to streamline maritime operations. The use of digital tools, such as blockchain for cargo tracking and real-time monitoring systems, will enhance transparency in customs processes, reduce bottlenecks at seaports, and boost trade efficiency.
DCG KI Adeola has been appointed to lead the newly established ICT-Modernisation Department, which oversees the integration of these cutting-edge technologies. Supported by an Assistant Comptroller-General and five Comptrollers, Adeola is expected to spearhead initiatives to significantly improve the digital management of Nigeria’s ports and maritime activities, promoting sustainable practices crucial to the blue economy.
Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR congratulated the new appointees and stressed the need for them to intensify their efforts in fulfilling NCS’s key roles of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and smuggling suppression.
He noted that their leadership will be instrumental in boosting Nigeria’s maritime trade capabilities and harnessing the economic potential of its waters, which is central to the growth of the blue economy.
Abdullahi Maiwada, Chief Superintendent of Customs and National Public Relations Officer highlighted the potential impact of these developments in a press statement, underscoring how a more efficient and tech-driven customs operation can enhance Nigeria’s position as a leader in maritime trade across Africa.
With these advancements, Nigeria’s maritime sector benefits from enhanced security, better customs practices, and improved infrastructure positioning the blue economy as a significant contributor to national growth.
