The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has stressed that customs reforms and trade facilitation are crucial for unlocking Africa’s economic potential and boosting the global competitiveness of exporters.
Speaking on Friday, September 5, 2025, during the ongoing Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025) in Algiers, Algeria, Adeniyi said the Nigeria Customs Service is working closely with other African customs administrations to drive transparency, efficiency, and innovation in continental trade.
“Customs reforms are no longer optional; they are essential for Africa to realise its full potential in trade. We must prioritise efficiency, transparency, and innovation to strengthen the competitiveness of African exporters and advance continental integration,” Adeniyi said.
He explained that Nigeria has already begun implementing wide-ranging modernisation programmes through the Customs Service. These include digitalising clearance processes, improving enforcement mechanisms, and investing in capacity building to create a seamless and efficient trading environment for businesses and investors.
The Intra-African Trade Fair, first launched in 2018, has grown to become Africa’s leading platform for trade, investment, and economic exchange. The 2025 edition is expected to generate over $44 billion in deals, bringing together thousands of exhibitors, governments, and investors to boost intra-African trade and drive economic growth.
Adeniyi noted that the customs reforms align with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), positioning Nigeria as a key regional hub for trade facilitation and industrial development.
A major highlight of the event was the announcement that Nigeria will host the next edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair, IATF2027. This development was welcomed as a recognition of Nigeria’s leadership role in regional integration and its commitment to ongoing economic reforms.
“With Nigeria hosting IATF2027, we have both an opportunity and a responsibility to showcase the impact of our reforms and demonstrate how Customs can drive sustainable economic growth. The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to creating a transparent, efficient, and technology-driven system that benefits all stakeholders,” Adeniyi stated.