By Faridat Salifu
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it is leveraging technology, trade facilitation reforms and stronger stakeholder collaboration to support Nigeria’s blue economy and improve the ease of doing business.
The National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, disclosed this at the 2026 Annual Conference of the Maritime Correspondents’ Organisation of Nigeria (MARCON) held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Represented by Chief Superintendent of Customs, Emmanuel Tangwa, Maiwada said the Service is modernising customs operations to facilitate legitimate trade while strengthening border security against smuggling, illicit trade and other transnational crimes.
He said efficient customs procedures are critical to unlocking opportunities in Nigeria’s seaports, inland waterways, export processing zones and free trade zones, thereby supporting investment and economic growth.
According to him, Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have become important drivers of industrialisation, exports, employment and investment, adding that Nigeria can harness its maritime assets to achieve sustainable economic development.
Maiwada noted that experiences from countries such as China and the United Arab Emirates demonstrate how well-managed economic zones can stimulate manufacturing, increase exports and attract foreign investment.
He, however, stressed that economic expansion under the blue economy must be pursued alongside the protection of marine ecosystems to ensure that coastal and maritime resources remain available for future generations.
Source :NAN
