To reinforce the longstanding partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and its counterpart in the Republic of Benin, a high-powered delegation led by Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi recently met with the Director-General of the Customs Administration of Benin Republic.
The primary focus of the meeting was to discuss strategies to enhance trade between the two countries and ensure smooth implementation of previously agreed recommendations from their last meeting in Cotonou.
Emphasizing the importance of this collaboration, CGC Adeniyi noted, “We are aware of the solid framework for cooperation that exists between our respective customs administrations.”
“This framework was established at a higher level by the authorities of the heads of State, President Patrice Talon of Benin and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria, both expressing a desire to work together. It is upon this foundation that the customs of both countries are united in their efforts.”
Welcoming the delegation, Mrs Adidjatou Hassan Zanouvi, the Director-General of Benin Customs Administration, reiterated their commitment to executing the mutually agreed measures, emphasising the importance of thorough monitoring to ensure effective implementation.
The collaborative endeavours between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Benin Republic Customs Administration, according to her, serve as a testament to their shared commitment to facilitating seamless trade operations and ensuring the efficient management of cross-border activities for the mutual benefit of both nations.
In the meantime, during the visit, the CGC seized the opportunity to inspect ongoing projects within the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command.
Accompanied by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Timi Bomodi, the CGC meticulously assessed the progress of the projects and received assurances of diligent oversight from the responsible authorities.